Silent Night

“Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”—Luke 2:10–11 NASB

It was Christmas Eve in 1944. World War II raged all around the German military hospital in Attendorn. Private First Class Bernard Macay of B Company in the American Army was in a POW ward with multiple shrapnel wounds.

When darkness fell, Macay and other prisoners heard festivities elsewhere in the hospital. At first, the sounds of Christmas made them homesick. Their mood changed when, to their surprise, a nurse walked into their ward and invited them to join in the celebration.

These Americans were asked to sing “Silent Night” in English. The Germans answered by singing “Stille Nacht” in the original German. Then together, they sang other carols in German and English. Macay recalled how “the war seemed to have vanished if only for a moment.”

As this anecdote illustrates, the Christmas story can soften even the most hardened heart. It can unite enemies and remind us of something (and Someone) more important than all the military and economic power of this world with its rewards and pleasures.

Joseph Mohr, the composer of “Silent Night,” concluded his simple chorus with these words: “With the angels let us sing, alleluia to our King; Christ the Savior is born!” Today, pause to think about the Savior we celebrate during this Christmas season. He is the King of all nations. Men and women everywhere, sing alleluia to our King!

Reflection Question: Compose a short poem to celebrate the birth of Jesus.