Just a few short days ago, the winter solstice marked the longest night of the year. Darkness blanketed the hemisphere for longer than it will again until Dec. 21 next year. And so now, we turn toward the light.

On Christmas Day we celebrate the arrival of a Light who prompted the announcing of “glad tidings of great joy.” A baby born to grow into a man who would ask us to understand we are loved and to love one another just the same. Wise men and visionary women sought him, tyrants feared him, and even then, there was the giving of gifts.

Though this Christmas may see few exchanges of frankincense and myrrh (though perhaps some gold), it will no doubt be filled with gifts, joy, singing and lights. Some will attend church services, some will read in their homes the story of a couple being forced to travel back to the town their ancestors had called home — to be counted and taxed — only to find no room for them in the inn.

There was no star atop a tree, but rather a star burning bright in the east to guide the way for those who wanted to worship the newborn King.

Many will celebrate the anniversary of those events gathered with family and friends. There will be grand meals, stories told — perhaps even a favorite holiday movie watched. Traditions will be kept; new ones will spring forth.

And whether we think of Christmas as a time for “Jingle Bell Rock” or “Silent Night” — likely both — there is no denying that what we celebrate is, truly, the most wonderful time of the year.

“Coming up to them at that very moment, (Anna) gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.”

— Luke 2:38

“And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”

— Luke 2: 13-14