What Does Advent Mean? Try This Week One Advent Meditation

Do you feel unclear about what Advent means and wonder how to observe the season as a follower of Christ? 

In this four-week blog series, we will explore answers to  questions like “What does advent mean?” and “Where do we find advent in the Bible?” We will also share a new advent meditation each week to help you enter into this season with intention and devotion. 

What is Advent Season? 

The season of Advent is a time of new beginnings, marking the beginning of the liturgical year in the Church. The word Advent is derived from the Latin root adventus, which is translated as “coming”.  

The season is dedicated to the preparation and hopeful anticipation of the Messiah, the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. It’s also a time of preparation for the second “advent” or the Second Coming of Christ.

What Does Advent Mean in the Bible?

The word “Advent” itself does not appear in the Bible.  However, the concept and themes associated with Advent are deeply rooted in biblical teachings. These include waiting, expectation, and preparation for the coming of the Messiah, which are significant themes in both the Old and New Testaments.

For example, Old Testament prophecies foretell the coming of a Savior, creating a sense of waiting and anticipation among the people of God:

  • “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14)
  • “But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times” (Micah 5:2)
  • “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the greatness of his government and peace there will be no end.” (Isaiah 9:6-7)

In the New Testament, the Gospels narrate the fulfillment of these prophecies through the birth of Jesus. They also point to the anticipation of the Christ’s second coming:

  • “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. (Luke 2:10-11) 
  • “Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory.  And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other.” (Matthew 24:30) 

Try This Week One Advent Meditation

How do we prepare for the “advent” or the coming of Christ? 

Here is an breath prayer to help you focus on the theme of hope offered by the arrival of Jesus, our long-awaited Messiah and King.

This advent meditation is a simple and reflective way to connect with God throughout the week and can be used while lighting your Advent wreath, during a time of devotion, or anytime throughout the day.

Advent meditation for Week One of Advent:

  • Preparation: Find a quiet and comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. Sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Begin with a few minutes of mindful breathing. Pay attention to your breath, inhaling and exhaling naturally. This helps calm the mind and bring your attention to the present moment.
  • Focus: As you inhale, meditate on placing your hope in Christ. As you exhale, let go of worries and invite His presence into your life.
  • Breath Prayer: (Inspired by Psalm 33:20-22) This advent meditation points to our hope in Jesus as we prepare our hearts for both the celebration of Christ’s birth and His promised return.
    • Inhale: My soul waits for You, Lord…
    • Exhale: …You are my help and shield.

Take the Christ-centered Meditation Quiz 

Advent means to prepare for the coming of Christ, and Christ-centered meditation is a great way to do so. Meditation helps us quiet our minds and focus on Christ.

Want to learn more about what makes Christian meditation different from other types of meditation? Take my Christ-centered Meditation Quiz!