As the lectionary calendar begins anew with Advent, the big theme is anticipation -- and the posture we should take of watchfulness and patient waiting. Of course, that's not the way we impatient modern folk approach much of our lives; we are used to more or less controlling our own destinies through grit and hard work, and we quickly become frustrated when we are stuck in traffic or have to wait in line. Nevertheless, being watchful and paying attention to the signs around us is crucial if we are to make the most of the situations we find ourselves in.
