Today is the beginning of Advent. Advent means “arrival” and refers both to the coming of Christ in the incarnation that we celebrate at Christmas and the glorious return of Christ at the end of time.

The following reflection from Lectio 365 was part of my devotions this morning. Maybe it will bless you too. The word maranatha, seen in the threefold prayer below, is Greek for Come, Lord Jesus and is found in Revelation 22:20. Here is part of the devotion I read:

Way back in the twelfth century, Bernard of Clairvaux, who was the founder of the Cistercian order of monks, said that Christ comes to us in three different ways: firstly, in Bethlehem at Christmas; secondly, at the end of the age; and thirdly, in the lives of believers every single day. I pray for all three of Christ’s comings this Advent:

Thank You, Father, for loving us so much that You sent Your Son to save us.
Maranatha. May Jesus be born again amongst us this Christmas. 

Thank You, Jesus, that You came before and You are coming again in glory.
Maranatha. We long for You to return and make all things new.

Thank You, Holy Spirit, for filling my life.
Maranatha. May the Lord Jesus Christ be born again in me today.