The adage “It’s always darkest before the dawn” is a perfect fit for this week in the Northern Hemisphere.

The winter solstice was Sunday. At less than eight hours, it was the shortest day of the year, leading to the longest, darkest night.

Then, four days later, we celebrate the entrance of divine light into the world on Dec. 25, with the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem 2,000 years ago. Down Under, it’s summertime because of the tilt of the Earth, but Christians in Australia, South America and Africa are also celebrating Christmas.… Continue Reading