During Advent, we remember what it was like in those days before Jesus came to save the world. And though today we still live in a world marred by sin and suffering, we can find hope in the knowledge that our Lord is with us in our suffering, that he understands our pain, and ultimately, He has won victory over sin and death. This true Christmas hope is not a flimsy hope dependent on the sparkle (or lack thereof) in our current circumstances; instead, it is a hope grounded in the assurance of a Savior who came, dwelt among us, redeemed us from sin, and who will come again to make all things new.