In the Catholic tradition, the second week of Advent is a time of patient reflection and anticipation, marked by the lighting of the second purple candle on the Advent wreath, known as the Bethlehem Candle or the Peace Candle. This candle symbolizes peace and commemorates Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem, where Jesus was born.
The Advent wreath, with its four candles, is a central symbol of the Advent season. Each candle represents a different aspect of the spiritual preparation for the coming of Christ. The first candle, the Prophet’s Candle, symbolizes hope. The second candle, the Bethlehem Candle, focuses on peace. This candle reminds us of the peace that Jesus brings to the world, a peace that surpasses all understanding.
The concept of peace in the Bible is rich and expressive of many meanings. The Hebrew word for peace, shalom, encompasses not just the absence of conflict but a sense of completeness and well-being. In the Old Testament, peace is often associated with God’s presence and blessing. For instance, in Isaiah 9:6-7, the prophecy of the coming Messiah describes Jesus as the “Prince of Peace.” This title underscores the role of Jesus in bringing spiritual and eternal peace to all creation. In the New Testament, the announcement of Jesus’ birth by the angels to the shepherds includes a proclamation of peace: “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14). This message highlights the divine peace that Jesus’ birth brings to the world
The journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem is a significant part of the Advent scriptures. According to the Gospel of Luke, Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken, requiring everyone to return to their ancestral towns. For Joseph, this meant traveling from Nazareth to Bethlehem, the city of David, because he was of the house and lineage of David. Despite the challenges and the humble circumstances, this journey fulfilled the prophecy that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2-5)
The second week of Advent invites us to reflect on the peace that Jesus brings into our lives. This peace is not merely the absence of turmoil but a profound sense of well-being and harmony with God. It is a peace that can exist even in the midst of life’s challenges and uncertainties. Jesus himself spoke of this peace in John 14:27, saying, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid”
During the second week of Advent, we are encouraged to meditate on the peace that Jesus brings and to seek ways to embody this peace in our daily lives. This can involve personal reflection, prayer, and acts of kindness and reconciliation. Here is a prayer for the second week of Advent:
“Lord Jesus, we are all tempted to live without peace. It is difficult for us to remember that our peace is ultimately found in our status as believers, your children. Help us to see the times when we have lived without peace and forgive us for our transgressions. Set our minds on you, that we may remember you are the prince of peace, and our security comes from you alone. Teach us that this peace is inward, everlasting, and can exist regardless of our circumstances. In whatever way you believe is best, teach us how to live in that peace every day. We ask for that in your holy name, Amen”
The second week of Advent, marked by the lighting of the Bethlehem Candle, is a time to focus on the peace that Jesus brings. This peace is a central theme of the Advent season, reminding us of the profound impact of Jesus’ birth on the world. As we light the Bethlehem Candle, we are called to reflect on the journey of Mary and Joseph, the fulfillment of prophecy, and the divine peace that Jesus offers to all who believe in him. Through prayer and reflection, we can prepare our hearts to receive this peace and share it with others during the Advent season and beyond.