On a cold Christmas Eve in Belgium in 1914, “Silent Night” was sung in German and then in English. Earlier in the day the soldiers had been shooting at each other, then they laid down their weapons and emerged from their trenches to shake hands in the “no man’s land” between them, exchanging Christmas greetings and spontaneous gifts from their rations. The ceasefire continued through the next day as the soldiers talked and laughed and even organized soccer matches together.
This Christmas Truce of 1914 that occurred in the Western Front offered a brief glimpse of the peace the angels proclaimed on the first Christmas long ago. An angel spoke to terrified shepherds with these words “But the angel said to them, Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:10–11) “Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” (Luke 2:13–14) Jesus is the “Prince of Peace” who saves us from our sins. “So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere.” (Isaiah 9:6) Through His sacrifice on the cross He offers forgiveness and peace with God to all who trust in Him.
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