The Shepherds' Candle, Symbolizing Joy

As children, we remember the smaller details of the nativity, like the swaddling clothes and the manger. As we learn more about Christ and what His coming means, we're struck by the joy He brings, the reason He came, and that the true meaning of Christmas was always love.

Day One: Swaddling Clothes
Swaddling clothes are cloths and bands used in the practice of swaddling, or essentially "wrapping" an infant tightly in cloth. The idea behind swaddling is that it helps the baby transition from the womb (a very snug place) to the outside world...
Read More

Day Two: The Joy of the Lord
The joy of the Lord is the gladness of heart that comes from knowing God, abiding in Christ, and being filled with the Holy Spirit...
Read More

Day Three: God in Flesh
Since Jesus' conception by the Holy Spirit in the womb of the virgin Mary (Luke 1:26-38), the real identity of Jesus Christ has always been questioned by skeptics. It began with Mary's fiancé, Joseph...
Read More

Day Four: Noel
Every year, people sing songs like "The First Noel" at Christmas, and many wonder what a "noel" is. In French, joyeux noel means "Merry Christmas"...
Read More

Day Five: The Manger
It is a common saying at Christmastime that Jesus Christ was "born in a manger." Of course, it wasn't possible for Him to actually be born in the manger, but that's where Mary laid Him after His birth...
Read More

Day Six: The Mission of Jesus
Several times in Jesus' life, He shows that He was a man on a mission. He had a purpose, which He intentionally fulfilled. Even at a young age, Jesus knew that He "must be about [His] Father's business"...
Read More

Day Seven: The True Meaning
The real Christmas story is the story of God's becoming a human being in the Person of Jesus Christ. Why did God do such a thing? Because He loves us!...
Read More

The Advent Series:
"The Prophets' Candle, Symbolizing Hope"
"The Bethlehem Candle, Symbolizing Faith"
"The Shepherds' Candle, Symbolizing Joy"
"The Angels' Candle, Symbolizing Peace"

Image Credit: Melly95; Untitled; Creative Commons