"Peace on earth, good will toward men!" So said the angels when they announced Jesus' birth to the shepherds. At Christmas we celebrate this merry news. We gather for parties and sing carols about peace, joy and happiness. And yet, beyond the parties and carols there is other news. The earth is filled with war and hatred, not peace and good will. The kingdoms of this world continue to rage, and the kingdom of God seems absent. Is Christmas really good news for the world, or is it just wishful thinking?