Dear Family and Friends, "Silent night, holy night, all is calm, all is bright..." Peace and light pervade the scene of this simple Christmas card. Three sheep peacefully, but expectantly, waiting on a snowy hillside, then being guided to a place of shelter and rest. Jesus said, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me and I give them eternal life..." John 10:27-28 A shepherd-farmer watching his sheep enter the barn, a shelter he has provided for them. In ancient times, shepherds often slept lying across the entrance to the sheepfold to prevent any harm coming to the sheep. Jesus said, "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives his life for the sheep." John 10:11 Four lights illuminating the darkness of the night: a bright star shines in the night sky; a lantern is held by the shepherd-farmer to guide the sheep; two candles give a warm welcome; soft light glows in the church. Jesus said, "I am the light of the world. He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life." John 8:12 The sources of light in this card are making a way in the darkness of the night-time. It brings to mind a greater darkness -- the darkness of a world that has rejected God. He pierced that darkness by sending His Son to pay for the sinful rebellion that had made the world dark. Jesus came to die and that death brought forgiveness, light, and peace to all who will follow Him. Wishing you peace and light in Him, Stephen and Brenda