The remaining three candles of ADVENT may be associated with different aspects of the ADVENT story in different churches, or even in different years. Usually they are organized around characters or themes as a way to unfold the story and direct attention to the celebrations and worship in the season. So, the sequence for the remaining three Sundays might be Bethlehem, Shepherds, Angels. Or Love, Joy, Peace. Or John the Baptist, Mary, the Magi. Or the Annunciation, Proclamation, Fulfillment. Whatever sequence is used, the Scripture readings, prayers, lighting of the candles, the participation of worshippers in the service, all are geared to unfolding the story of redemption through God’s grace in the Incarnation.
The light of the candles itself becomes an important symbol of the season. The light reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world that comes into the darkness of our lives to bring newness, life, and hope. It also reminds us that we are called to be the light to the world as we reflect the light of God’s grace to others (Isaiah 42:6).
The progression in the lighting of the candles symbolizes the various aspects of our waiting experience. As the candles are lit over the four-week period, it also symbolizes the darkness of fear and hopelessness receding and the shadows of sin falling away as more and more light is shed into the world.
The flame of each new candle reminds the worshippers that something is happening, and that more is yet to come. Finally, the light that has come into the world is plainly visible as the Christ candle is lit at Christmas, and worshippers rejoice over the fact that the hope and promise of long ago have been realized.