The word Advent comes from the Latin “adventus” meaning “a coming, approach, or arrival.” The Advent Season is all about contemplating how we can prepare our hearts and
homes to celebrate the birth of Jesus. It is a time of reflection on our spiritual lives and anticipation for the arrival of Christmas. It is a season for faith communities and families to remember, through prayer, reflections, special music, and good deeds what the true meaning of what Jesus’ birth is all about. Advent is the celebration of the coming of Christ. Whether you open windows on an Advent calendar, light candles every evening, or look at the Christmas decorations going up around town you’re celebrating the upcoming arrival of a holiday.
While Advent traditions vary based on religious denominations and cultures, one common practice includes focusing on four themes. These themes, or virtues, can be various things. The most common Advent themes are hope, peace, joy, and love. Some traditions include lighting a different candle on a wreath each Sunday of Advent and reflecting a different theme.
Some may be surprised to learn that the word “advent” is not in the Bible. However, various verses in Scripture focus on Christ’s arrival. While they may not mention it specifically, they get to the heart of what Advent means.
- For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. —John 3:16
- “The days are coming,” declares the LORD, “when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch, a King who will reign wisely and do what is just and right in the land.” —Jeremiah 23:5
- Therefore, the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. —Isaiah 7:14
- But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” —Luke 2:10-12
- She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus because he will save his people from their sins. —Matthew 1:21
Biblical Advent Prayers
- There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots shall bear fruit and the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him… (Isaiah 11:1-2)
- You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house…(Matthew 5:14)
- Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into His presence with singing! (Psalm 100:2)
- And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14)
I pray that you find a meaningful way to celebrate the Advent season with friends and family.
