Awaiting redemption is one of the most basic tenets of Judaism, and it is thanks to this very anticipation that the people of Israel will merit redemption.

When they bring a person in to heavenly judgment after his death, they say to him: Did you conduct business faithfully and equitably? Did you designate fixed times for Torah study? Did you engage in procreation? Did you await salvation?

Even if Israel has in its favor only the anticipation for redemption, they are worthy of redemption in reward for that anticipation. (Shabbat 31a; Yalkut Shimoni 2:736)