There seems for most people a great deal of anticipation surrounding Christmas.  There are the traditions, the memories, family and of course the gifts particularly for children.  Anticipation is linked to hope with the desire of better things.  In Christ there is a sure hope that is a reality and this anticipation will never disappoint, Rom.5:1-5.  Throughout the Old Testament until the birth of Christ there was an anticipation of the Messiah.  We of course celebrate that blessed arrival with Christmas and now those who have repented and believed in Christ alone for salvation look forward to the Blessed Hope of Christ, Titus 2:13; Rev.22:17, 20.