On a night long, long ago, the angels heralded the birth of Christ and proclaimed, “Peace on earth, goodwill to men.”  This life-changing announcement was also an invitation…a call to each person from that point forward to not only recognize the gift from above, but to join in that peace and goodwill displayed by our Father through such a gesture.  The power of this gift and invitation transcends time, languages, geographical boundaries, and all manner of human differences and deficiencies.

On Christmas Eve long ago in 1914, during weary, winter World War I battle at the front in Europe, the world witnessed soldiers lay down their arms in an impromptu and unauthorized truce.  Men from both sides called out Christmas greetings, then ventured out into “no-man’s land” between the trenches.  They shook hands, talked, and even exchanged gifts of food, tobacco, alcohol, newspapers, and souvenirs. The “Christmas Truce” is a powerful example from the past of mankind remembering in a compelling way “what unites us is greater than what divides us.”

Then there is the power of music. In 1955, the hymn “Let There Be Peace on Earth (and let it begin with me)” was written for and sung by the International Children’s Choir. From the mouths of babes, right?

Sometimes, messages from above are the most powerful and effective when they come from an unexpected or ironic source—like a lesson on peace from soldiers during war…or the inspiration of children schooling us all.

Today’s world could use a few more powerful reminders—examples of mankind reflecting God’s peace and goodwill.  What difference will you make…what action will you take…how will you herald the message?

“Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.” – Isaiah 60:1