advent, the adventus

We would always light an extra candle each Sunday at this time of the year at church, but I never paid much attention to the meaning of the tradition. So what is Advent? Advent was originally (middle of 6th century) a time of fasting from 11th November to the time Christmas was celebrated. This was to be a time of rememberance of His first coming and preparation for His return. Beyond [dry] liturgy that goes on during this time of the year, it now strikes me as a time of longing for the adventus (lat.), for His coming. At times like now, I don't just long for Him but for His coming or appearing epiphaneia (gr.), for Him to be real to me. And to sweep me up under the shadow of His wings. Yes, I long for You, my Savior.