The second Advent candle, often called the “Bethlehem Candle” or the “Candle of Preparation,” represents peace and getting ready for the coming of Jesus Christ. Lighting this candle reminds us to prepare our hearts and lives to receive Christ anew this Christmas season. But what does the candle’s symbolism of “peace” really mean in relation to the Advent season and Christ’s coming? Let’s explore the meaning behind the second Advent candle and how it calls us to seek true peace in our lives.
The History and Meaning of the Advent Wreath
The Advent wreath originated from a German Lutheran tradition in the 16th century. The wreath’s circular shape represents God’s infinite love and the eternity of life. The evergreens used point to ongoing life amid winter’s death. And the four candles mark each week of Advent before Christmas Eve.
Each candle holds symbolic meaning:
| 1st candle | Hope |
| 2nd candle | Peace |
| 3rd candle | Joy |
| 4th candle | Love |
The second candle lit specifically represents peace and penitence as we prepare for Christ’s coming. The prophets Isaiah and John the Baptist announced that Jesus would bring God’s peace (Isaiah 9:6, Luke 1:76-79). As we long for that peace, the second candle reminds us to reflect on and repent of the sins disrupting true peace in our lives.
But what does biblical “peace” really entail?
The Meaning of Biblical Peace
When we think of peace, we may picture the absence of conflict or a feeling of serenity and calm. But biblical peace, or “shalom” in Hebrew, contains much richer meaning.
The prophet Isaiah described the peace of God’s kingdom where harmony reigns across all relationships—with God, others, and all creation (Isaiah 11:1-10). The apostle Paul wrote that Christ himself is our peace, breaking down all divisions and making peace through his sacrificial death on the cross (Ephesians 2:14-18).
So the peace proclaimed at Jesus’ coming signifies restored relationships, righteousness, justice, and wholeness of body, mind, spirit, and community. Biblical peace flows from reconciliation with God and the work of the Holy Spirit in our hearts. As author Cornelius Plantinga states, “The webs of peace are woven where the Spirit works.”
How Do We Prepare for Christ’s Peace?
During the Advent season, lighting the second candle reminds us to prepare for Christ’s perfect peace. But what does active preparation look like?
Reflect on the Broken Peace in Our Lives
We must honestly assess the areas where we lack peace—within ourselves, in relationships, and in our world. As we reflect, we can pray prayers of repentance and seek forgiveness.
Spend Time in Scripture
God’s Word illuminates how Jesus brings God’s shalom. Meditating on passages about peace and reconciliation shapes our hearts to receive Christ’s peace.
Participate in Spiritual Practices
Prayer, fasting, simplicity, and generosity open space for the Holy Spirit to cultivate peace in our souls. These practices help detach us from worldly anxieties and purify us to receive Christ’s presence.
Pursue Reconciliation
Seeking forgiveness and making amends for broken trust prepares us for Christ’s gift of reconciliation. As we repair ruptured relationships, we participate in the Advent work of peacemaking.
Serve Others in Love
Isaiah 58 shows that true worship of God leads to just action and service, especially among the vulnerable and marginalized. When we serve those in need, we walk in the peace-filled ways of Christ.
Preparing for the Prince of Peace
Advent is a precious gift inviting us to empty, examine, and expectant hearts before Jesus, the Prince of Peace. Lighting the second candle reminds us we cannot generate the peace proclaimed at Christ’s coming. It is God’s gift, and we simply create room to receive it.
As we tend the Bethlehem Candle’s flame this Advent, may our spirits grow more receptive to Christ’s peace. May repentance smooth the way for reconciliation. And in darkness, may we walk in the light of the peace Jesus alone provides.
Conclusion
The second Advent candle represents Christ’s peace and our preparation to receive it. But biblical peace surpasses serenity to encompass restored relationships, justice, and wholeness of all creation. As we reflect, pray, reconcile, and serve this Advent season, Christ’s peace can illuminate our lives with the brilliance of God’s kingdom. The Bethlehem Candle reminds us we do not manufacture peace ourselves—we simply make room for the Prince of Peace through repentance and expectation. May our hearts become fitting dwelling places for the peace of Jesus to dwell richly within.