The waning days of 2016 provide an opportunity for many thoughts and emotions. To say that it has been an eventful year is probably a bit of an understatement. Much has changed in the world; 2017 dawns to both new clarity and uncertainty, and we are reminded that there is both good and evil in the world. Amid the termoil of this broken world, we are drawn to the celebration of a 2000 year old story. A world in darkness, a baby in a manger, shepherds startled in their fields, Immanuel, God with man. A story that is not only intriguing drama, but also eternal reality. It is this, the great story, in which good stories find their fulfillment. The apostle John says of that child that “in him was life and the life was the light of men” and that “the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” Even after two millennia, the story continues and the light shines as strongly and clearly as ever. And so, as we say goodbye to 2016, we celebrate the light and long for the day when faith will be turned to sight for “the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.” Merry Christmas.