Walking the Ancient Paths to Christmas

A Devotional Guide for Families During the Advent Season

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Release date: November 29, 2024

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Imagine gathering with your family, lighting the first candle of Advent as its glow fills the room. Whether it’s a warm evening or a chilly night, the candle’s light pushes back the darkness, drawing you into the quiet anticipation of the season. In this simple act, we step into the ancient tradition of Advent—a time to prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. Just as Jeremiah called the people of Israel to “stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths” (Jeremiah 6:16), so Advent calls us to reflect on the good way that leads us to the Light of the World.

Advent is a season of waiting, expectation, and preparation, as we approach the celebration of Christmas—the birth of Christ. The word “Advent” comes from the Latin adventus, meaning “coming” or “arrival.” Just as we prepare our homes to welcome a guest—turning on lights and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere—we prepare our hearts during Advent to welcome Christ.

A central part of this tradition is the lighting of candles on the Advent wreath. Typically, the wreath holds four candles: three purple and one pink. The purple candles represent the royalty of Jesus as the Son of David, reminding us of the kingly nature of the Messiah. The pink candle, often lit on the third Sunday of Advent, symbolizes joy—the joy of Christ’s coming into the world. As each candle is lit, the growing light signifies the approach of the One who dispels the darkness of sin and brings the hope of salvation. Regardless of their color, each candle reminds us of the birth of the Light of the World, who came to shine in the darkness and bring light to all people.

While different Christian traditions emphasize Advent to varying degrees, all look forward to celebrating the birth of Jesus. The modern Advent wreath, a key symbol of the season, originated in Germany, though the details of its origin remain unclear. Historians believe ancient Germanic peoples lit candles around wreaths during the dark winter months, anticipating the return of warmth and light in spring. This cultural practice was later adapted by Christians into the Advent wreath we recognize today—a powerful symbol of Christ, of whom John said, “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind” (John 1:4).

Jesus declared, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life” (John 8:12). He also commissioned His followers, saying, “You are the light of the world … let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14, 16). As we light candles, we reflect on these words, remembering that we are not only recipients of Christ’s light, but also bearers of that light to the world.

 During our Advent journey, let’s remember that Christ’s light shines in us, and we are called to share His light with others. This season offers an opportunity for deep reflection, joyful anticipation, and meaningful connections with those around us. The “ancient paths” mentioned in Jeremiah 6:16 leads us toward Christmas, a time of hope, peace, joy, and love. Lighting each candle reminds us to embody these gifts in our relationships—within our homes, churches, communities, and the world.

 This guide helps us experience the full richness of the Christmas season in a variety of settings—whether in personal reflection, family worship, or group devotions.

Advent is a time of preparation, not just for Christmas Day but for the coming of Christ into our lives anew. Whether you use this guide personally, with family, or in community, let it lead you deeper into the mystery of Christ’s birth and His light shining in our world.