Peace on Earth

I was reminded of an incident that happened almost exactly a century ago, one that could have put an end to violence and warfare. Sadly, it didn't.

In the midst of the First World War, on Christmas Eve, 1914, the war fell silent along a thirty-mile span of the western front. The Germans put down their weapons, lit lanterns and sang Christmas Carols. The British side, recognizing the tunes if not the lyrics, applauded and shouted greetings. On Christmas Day, German, French and British troops met in a no-man's land, shook hands, shared food and exchanged gifts. The "Christmas Truce," as it has come to be called, lasted for hours. Alas, peace was not permanent and the soldiers were reminded of their duty. Soon, they were once again trying to kill one another. (From a devotional, written by David McCasland, focusing on Ephesians 2:13-19.)

This historical fact is striking for two reasons. Firstly, it is amazing that, in the midst of  multi-national conflict, even Christmas can bring a respite from the violence and devastation. It is surprising that the German troops were able to bring a day of peace simply by celebrating the birth of Jesus. Clearly, the French and British troops recognized in the effort a beauty that transcended the purposes of warfare, even if for a very short time. Secondly, it is surprising that a peace once reached could be driven back into violence and warfare. What forces led those who had shaken hands, shared gifts, and sang together of the season to turn back to despising, hating, fearing and killing one another?

Surely, in a return to violence, hatred and warfare, we see the hand of authority and power. Clearly, someone ordered the troops from their celebration of Christmas to the fighting for which they were responsible. I imagine that they were reminded of their "higher purpose," their responsibility to country and throne and flag. "Stop that silly camaraderie," the officers may have said, "And get back to the war."

It is my opinion that we live in very dangerous times. Those who have historically been discriminated against have great reason to fear. Far too many recent incidents have seen unarmed and possibly innocent young black men shot down and killed by the police. When fervor for providing for the safety and security of the general public touched us against racial prejudice and fear of those unlike the majority, there is bound to be violence. Unjustifiable death is the result.

We are tempted to sweep the incidents aside as a cost of providing for the safety and security of the general public. I am reminded of another historical act, however. Pastoral members of the Evangelical Church in Germany found themselves imprisoned in World War II Germany. Their arrests came as a shock to them. They had stood behind the Third Reich, supported the social and foreign policies, even supported the war. When the authorities began arresting Jewish neighbors, these leaders were unconcerned. When the same authorities began arresting anyone with a dissenting voice, they remained unconcerned. When the Church leaders had seen enough abuse and death, and began to speak up, they too were arrested by the authorities. You can read the message of repentance yourselves by Googling "The Barmen Declaration."

I do not appreciate authority run amok. I do not appreciate the manner in which authorities treat good citizens of whatever race, color, nationality, age or physical appearance if those authorities are in any way being less than polite and respectful. I have been stopped by an officer for having an nonworking license plate light. Before he even arrived at my window, he had inspected the interior of my automobile. What the interior of my car had to do with a burned out license plate light baffles me yet. When he did arrive at my window, he was disrespectful and rude. I can only imagine what that incident may have been like if I were a young black man, or any minority. I was insulted and, in my opinion, abused.

Where is the peace? Can we achieve it? And, if we can achieve it, can we make it last? Or will we respond to the order of the officers, who may say, "Stop all this silliness and get back to the war?"

May Jesus achieve the peace in our hearts and times that we can now only imagine.