One fretful and dangerous winter in the dark of King Herod's dread, a child was born in a stable. Let there be light, God said. Light poured through a willing Mary and wailed in her baby's first cry. Light cornered the carpenter Joseph and plumbed his faith utterly. Light shattered the peace of shepherds tending sheep in the craggy wild, and steadied three dusty magi making slow way toward the child. Though conflict and dread live on, and new dangers roam the land, a light still shines in the darkness, the winter light, where we stand. May it waken us from slumber, and guide us through the dark nights. May it fit us for willing labour, join hope to a faith burning bright. For the winter light is the Christ child, God enfleshed become saviour and friend, and the cry of life is a cry for love Let there be light! Amen!