This morning, my Advent calendar gifted me a small candle. It wasn’t fancy—just a simple white votive. The other night we lost power during a storm. How often have I fumbled around the house in the dark, desperately searching for a flashlight and upon finding a flashlight discovering that the batteries were dead. Thankfully, I remembered the scented Yankee Candle sitting on my living room bookstand, its evergreen aroma has been helping me to prepare for Christmas. Once I lit it, the entire mood shifted. 

Today’s Advent Calendar “gift,” a small candle, brought me back to that moment. Even a simple flame has the power to change our surroundings, bringing not just light, but a sense of peace—and maybe even a pleasant aroma. Isn’t that exactly what Christ calls us to do in Advent? To shine His light in a world often overshadowed by darkness and to bring a fragrance of love, hope, and joy to those around us.
Advent is a season of waiting and preparing, of longing for the light that only Christ can bring. Today’s readings speak beautifully to this theme. In Judges, the angel of the Lord brings hope to a barren couple, announcing the birth of Samson, who will begin to deliver Israel. Similarly, in Luke’s Gospel, we hear about Zechariah and Elizabeth, whose miraculous son, John the Baptist, will prepare the way for Christ.

Both stories remind us that God’s light often breaks into the most unexpected places. Today’s O Antiphon echoes this hope: _“O Root of Jesse’s stem, sign of God’s love for all his people: come to save us without delay!”_ Just as a root grows unseen before it bears fruit, God’s light works quietly in our lives, bringing renewal, growth, and hope.


Reflecting on today’s small candle, I’m struck not just by the idea of light, but also by the aroma it brings. Scripture often connects scent with holiness: in the Psalms, our prayers are described as rising like incense to God; in John’s Gospel, Mary anoints Jesus with costly perfume, filling the house with its fragrance. Similarly, when we live in love, our actions become like a pleasing aroma to God and to those around us.

St. Paul captures this idea in his letter to the Corinthians, saying, _“We are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved”_ (2 Cor 2:15). It’s a humbling thought: through our kindness, compassion, and joy, we can carry the fragrance of Christ into the world. But that also invites a question: _Am I bringing light and a sweet aroma to others, or am I contributing to the shadows?_


Advent’s third week focuses on joy—a joy that flows from self-giving love and trust in God’s mercy. Bringing light and sweetness to others doesn’t require grand gestures. Sometimes it’s in the smallest things: offering a kind word, sharing a smile, or listening patiently to someone in need. These small “flames” of love can brighten someone’s day and create an atmosphere of peace.

The Responsorial Psalm today captures this beautifully: _“For you are my hope, O Lord; my trust, O God, from my youth… My mouth shall be filled with your praise, and I will sing your glory.”_ Like a candle’s light and aroma, our lives are meant to radiate God’s love and goodness.
Tonight,  light a candle—whether during prayer or simply to enjoy its glow and scent—let it remind you of the light and fragrance you are called to bring into the world. Think about someone who might be struggling with darkness or loneliness, and consider how you can offer them hope, even in a small way. Perhaps it’s a phone call, a heartfelt prayer, or simply sharing your time.


The smallest candle can illuminate the darkest room, and the simplest act of love can transform a heavy heart. As we reflect on today’s Advent candle, let’s remember that Christ, the Light of the World, invites us to carry His flame into every corner of our lives. And let’s not forget the aroma—our actions and attitudes can fill the world with the fragrance of His love.

This Advent, let’s strive to be light-bearers and bring the sweet scent of hope, peace, and joy to others. After all, a single candle can do more than just light a room—it can change the mood, push back the darkness, and remind us of the warmth and love of Christ.