I find the Advent wreath interesting as a symbol – it’s circular, never-ending, and it highlights something in the centre.

It’s one we don’t just see at Christmas – we lay wreaths on Remembrance Day as a mark of respect and reverence. So, though we wouldn’t name it such, the wreath has sacred significance. Two centuries ago, a hanging wreath was a reminder of the nativity story, told by Lutheran clergyman by candlelight – the true story of God with us, as a child, who came to bring light and life and love to all who would hear it.

It was also an invitation into a home. An indication of life behind closed doors. This is something we will rally behind in 2023 – we hang Advent wreaths to share our goodwill, to spread Christmas cheer, and to make our doors look nice – to make our homes welcoming.

Do you ever feel that sense of longing for home comforts when you’re out on a dark night in the cold? In this sense, the wreath is still a reminder of the nativity story. It’s a warm welcome home, into a place that is lit and beaming into the dark streets, inviting, and safe from the cold. We long for this sense of home.

People of Zion, who live in Jerusalem, you will weep no more. How gracious he will be when you cry for help! As soon as he hears, he will answer you. Although the Lord gives you the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, your teachers will be hidden no more; with your own eyes you will see them. Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

Isaiah 30:19-20 NIV

When the Son of God came at Christmas – Word of the Father, now in flesh, appearing – humanity was stumbling around outside in deadliest winter, in a dark alleyway, with nowhere to turn. The Son of God came and when He died, the door was flung open – a door with a wreath on – and light spilled out, and the warm fire was roaring, and He welcomed us in, all who would bow. Then He defeated death and now he says to me, and to you, “This is the way – walk in it.”

The Advent wreath reminds us of the warm invitation we receive to know our Creator God personally, through Jesus Christ. It’s an invitation to go home. It reminds us too of the final day when, if we surrender ourselves and choose Him instead, we will be welcomed in to our never-ending home, in warmth and glorious light.

Are you wandering in the cold, dark night, longing for light? See the wreath and look to Christ – be welcomed home.