What does the Jesus candle mean?

Answered by Jason Smith

The Jesus candle, also known as the Christ Candle, holds a significant meaning in the Advent tradition. It is often placed in the center of the Advent wreath and is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. This candle symbolizes the light that Jesus brought into the world when he was born as a humble baby, yet fully divine as God in the flesh.

The lighting of the Jesus candle represents the culmination of the Advent season, which is a period of anticipation and preparation for the coming of Christ. Each week leading up to Christmas, a different candle on the Advent wreath is lit, representing various aspects of the Advent journey. The final candle, the Jesus candle, is lit to mark the birth of Jesus, the fulfillment of the prophecies and promises of God.

The placement of the Jesus candle in the center of the Advent wreath holds great significance. It serves as a focal point, drawing attention to the birth of Jesus as the central event in human history. This candle reminds us that Jesus is the light of the world, illuminating the darkness and bringing hope, peace, joy, and love to all.

By lighting the Jesus candle on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, we acknowledge and celebrate the momentous occasion of Christ’s birth. It is a time of transition from the anticipation and waiting of Advent to the joyful celebration of Christmas. The light of the Jesus candle reminds us of the miraculous and transformative power of God’s love, which entered the world through the birth of Jesus.

Personally, I have experienced the beauty and symbolism of the Jesus candle during Advent and Christmas celebrations. I have witnessed the lighting of this candle in church services and family gatherings, and it never fails to evoke a sense of awe and reverence. The soft glow of the candle’s flame serves as a reminder of the profound impact that Jesus’s birth has had on the world.

The Jesus candle holds deep meaning in the Advent tradition. It represents the light that Jesus brought into the world through his birth, signaling the fulfillment of God’s promises. Placed in the center of the Advent wreath, it serves as a focal point and symbolizes the transition from anticipation to celebration. The Jesus candle reminds us of the transformative power of God’s love and the hope, peace, joy, and love that Jesus brings to all.