St. Augustine did not live Advent as we understand it today nor did he write specifically about it, as this liturgical celebration developed in the Church centuries after his death. However, Augustine’s teachings and reflections have a deep connection to the spirit of Advent, which is a time of preparation for the coming of Christ, both in his Nativity and his second coming. His insistence on hope, humility and interior preparation are essential pillars of Advent spirituality.
Some relevant ideas of St. Augustine related to Advent:
1. Hope in Christ
St. Augustine constantly stressed the importance of living with our eyes fixed on Christ, especially on his glorious return. 
This resonates with Advent, which calls the faithful to be vigilant and prepared for his second coming. Recall how, in his Confessions (Book I, Chapter 1), Augustine writes: “You have made us, O Lord, for Yourself, and our heart is restless until it rests in You.” This restlessness is similar to the expectation of Advent, a time to long for the coming of the Savior.
2. The incarnation and humility of Christ
St. Augustine often meditated on the mystery of the Incarnation, emphasizing Christ’s humility in becoming man. 
This is one of the main focuses of Advent, which prepares the faithful to celebrate the birth of Jesus. In Sermon 185, Augustine comments: “God became man so that man could participate in the divine nature.” This reflection reinforces the spiritual preparation that characterizes Advent.
3. Conversion and preparation
Advent is a time of conversion, and Augustine emphasized the need to turn away from sin and turn to God. 
His writings are a constant call to conversion of heart. A well-known passage from his Confessions (Book X, Chapter 27) expresses his personal experience of conversion: “Late I loved you, beauty so old and so new, late I loved you!”. This call to repentance and love of God is very appropriate to the spirit of Advent.
To help you live Advent Augustinian style, this year we offer daily biblical and Augustinian reflections that we will post on our social media profiles: Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).
St. Augustine had a profoundly meaningful and transformative relationship with the Word of God, which was central to his conversion, his spiritual life and his teachings as a theologian. 
Therefore, each Augustinian reflection or quotation will be accompanied by a brief biblical commentary corresponding to the liturgy of the day. We hope that this simple daily Augustinian guide can help you to live a joyful and meaningful Advent.
Luciano Audisio, and the selection of Augustinian texts and commentaries are by Friar Enrique Eguiarte.