Christmas message

Christmas in a Time of Conflict. 

In 1914, on a cold Christmas eve in Belgium the sound of singing floated from the trenches where the soldiers were dug in and ready to do battle with the enemy. Strains of the carol "Silent Night" rang out, in German and then English. Soldiers who, earlier in the day, had shooting at each other, laid down their weapons and emerged from the trenches to shake hands in the 'no mans' land' area between them and to exchange Christmas greetings and to share their rations with each other. The ceasefire continued through the next day as the soldiers talked, laughed and even had a football match.

The Christmas Truce of 1914 that occurred along the Western Front offered a brief glimpse of the peace the angels proclaimed on the first Christmas Eve so many years ago. An angel spoke to terrified shepherds with the reassuring words of "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 saviour has been born to you" (Luke 2: 10-11). Then a multitude of angels appeared, praising God and saying "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favour rests". (vv 13-14).

Jesus is the "Prince of Peace" who saves us from our sins (Isaiah , 9:6). Through His sacrifice on the cross He offers forgiveness and peace with God to all who trust Him.
                                                                                                               
                                                                                                                          James Banks

Right now, we are at war with an invisible enemy. Our resolve to triumph in a time of crisis must be driven by our trust in God.


Prince of Peace, rule in my heart here today. I praise Your perfect peace that this world can never take away.
                             Amen


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