In many traditions, lighting candles on the various Sundays of Advent is an important element of the lead up to Christmas. I was reminded of this when my practicum student gave me a candle last week along with a few other gifts.

Each Sunday, a candle is lit in the lead up to Christmas Day. Some people appear to do four Sundays, others five. The candles represent elements of the Christian life and demeanour: faith, hope, love, joy, peace.

The church tradition I’m a part of doesn’t make much of Advent. If this blog is anything to go by, I think we’re missing something there. Of course, this might be because some people could be inclined to think that the religious ritual of lighting a candle changes the connection between you and God.

It doesn’t change the connection between you and God, only Jesus can do that.

However, I still think the meditative element of lighting a candle and reflecting on Christ in the lead up to Christmas is a good idea.

I’ve never lit an advent candle or been part of a service with a communal lighting.

Instead, I do prayer candles.

I have one on the go right now. Every time I light it I pray for the same person.

As you move around doing whatever, the presence of the candle in the room reminds you to send up another prayer, another request, another word of thanks for that person: interceding on their behalf in prayer.

I really don’t know why we don’t do advent candles, because prayer candles are great and focus the mind.

At the end of the day, anything that helps us focus on God and pray better, is a good thing. No matter what time of year.

Maybe you could try it in the lead up to Christmas. Think of someone. Light a candle and send up a prayer, or two.

Yours lighting the flame,

Alison