Advent comes from the Latin word “adventus,” meaning the coming or arrival of something long awaited. All throughout history people longed for the advent of a savior. Ancient rulers from Egypt, Assyria, and Rome (among others) preyed upon this longing, claiming to be the fulfillment. And like all before them, they died. But then Jesus comes along and claims salvation was coming, but not as the people expected. Through this we learn that God’s presence is not contingent upon our expectation; it is revealed in our awareness. Although things may not be the way we hoped or intended, God is still present in our circumstances. We just need the eyes to see Him.