We have just finished Ordinary Time in the church year. Now we begin the season of Advent, which is the season of reflection and preparation for the arrival of the infant Jesus. The term advent comes from the Latin advenire, meaning to come. We are coming to meet Jesus. The corresponding Greek term parousia also means presence or arrival. In ancient times parousia was a technical term depicting the arrival of an emperor or king. This arrival was celebrated the glory of the sovereign leader.
What are the colors of Advent? Purple (violet) and rose (pink). The subdued colors of purple represents our time of somber reflection and repentance during this season. Rose, at the third Sunday of Advent, represents joy and anticipation of the coming of Jesus.
So Advent is the time when we prepare ourselves to meet Jesus, our King. Then we will celebrate His arrival with glory.