Advent comes from the Latin word meaning "coming." Jesus is coming, and Advent is intended to be a season of preparation for His arrival. While we typically regard Advent as a joyous season, it is also intended to be a period of preparation, much like Lent. Prayer, penance and fasting are appropriate during this season.
Advent is not as strict as Lent, and there are no rules for fasting, but it is meant to be a period of self-preparation. The purple color associated with Advent is also the color of penance. The faithful should fast during the first two weeks in particular and receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
The color of the Third Sunday of Advent is rose. This color symbolizes joy and represents the happiness we will experience when Jesus comes again. The Third Sunday is a day of anticipatory celebration. It is formerly called "Gaudete" Sunday; gaudete means "rejoice" in Latin.
Advent also remembrance the past and future.
We were brought back to the ancient history where the Israel was in exiled in Babylonia 500 years BC. They were strangers to the land, darkness and emptiness. There were neither Kings or God as the temple in Jerusalem was destroyed. They were longing for Messiah, the saviour and the King who freed and brought them back to the promised land. And finally baby Jesus came in humility, someone that they never expected.
And now for the future, we were longing for the second coming of Jesus. He will come in the glory and victory and will judge our enemy.
We have unknown date but we live in the hope as what the ancient Israel did.
Source : Catholic.org and Augustine Institute
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