ad wreath

 

Third Sunday in Advent and will our first Advent candle make it to Christmas Day? Seemed to me quite a philosophical question once I had put to one side the implications of burning holly as the candle flame neared the crisp leaves.

 

We try hard to get everything ready, sermons prepared, carol services arranged, nativity scenes installed, tree festivals organised, ensuring of course that all are happy with their space in the church. And then something unaccountable and unforeseen takes place.

The first Advent candle runs out!! Disaster, wreath loses it’s beauty,flower ladies unhappy!!

‘Who bought the candles this year’ I was asked. ‘ Well I thought they were a good price.’ I answered in defence.

But let’s not lose sight of the main candle in the centre and the main reason why we are celebrating.

Preparation, getting ready…. better to make sure that we’re there, ready in our hearts on Christmas Day.

Revd Sue Martin

Curate at Gayton group of parishes