Family Life Ministry Moment
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5
There is something simple and wonderful about gathering around a candle. One can’t help being drawn in by the colorful, dancing glow of a flame. In the hurried Advent season, a moment of calm can help us and the families we serve focus on the Light of the world.
As a child, I remember finding the Advent wreath in our Christmas decorations, placing it on our dining table, and the great expectation that arose in lighting each candle (especially the pink!).
That same Advent wreath has been passed to me, and every year we lovingly set it out on our dining table, eager to light it, (and hopefully not fight over who extinguishes each candle). A hush of wonder and anticipation draws across our lively (and often chaotic) dinner table as the Advent candle is lighted. In the glow of the light, we read a scripture passage or devotional, sing a hymn, and pray. This simple five- or ten-minute addition added to the end of a meal creates a habit of intentionally gathering around God’s word.
In this time of year when we strive to make the moments special, adding in an Advent wreath or even one candle can help us refocus on the Light of the world… And when Christmas and Epiphany have passed and all the decorations have been put away, what if you left that candle on the dining table? Try continuing this habit of gathering around light, the Word, and the Light that shines in the darkness.
Deb Jurchen serves the District as Congregational Consultant for Family Life Ministry. In this role, she will share articles and resources to encourage congregations to connect with and serve the families in their community. Click here to learn more about Family Life Ministry.