During World War 1 in 1914, England and Germany were at war against each other. Five months into the war about 800,000 soldiers were wounded and killed all in all already.
But something happened on December 25. From the camp of the British soldiers, a "Merry Christmas" sign was raised, then they sang a Christmas carol. The Germans also sang a Christmas carol of their own. Soon, carols were heard from both camps.
Then soldiers from both camps emerged from their trenches unarmed and met with their counterparts right in the middle of the cross fire zone. They sang Christmas songs, conversed with each other , exchanged gifts and played a soccer game! The Germans won 3 to 2.
Later on, however, when additional troops came, the war resumed. The amazing thing was this --- in memory of the Incarnation, enemies experienced peace with each other, although temporarily.
Today, as we celebrate the birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, let us never forget that peace and reconciliation with God is possible because 2000 years ago the Lord Jesus Christ became a Man. Because of Him, if we trust in Him alone for salvation, we can "play soccer" with God for all eternity.
