In 1861 an elderly American was filled with sorrow at the tragic death of his wife in a fire. The Civil War broke out that same year, adding to his sorrow. Two years later this man again knew sadness when his own son was seriously wounded as a lieutenant in the Army of the Potomac.
And so it was on Christmas Day in 1863, upon hearing church bells ringing loudly and clearly, that poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, author of Paul Revere's Ride, Song of Hiawatha, and others, wrote the words to this fine Christmas song, a song we don't sing often enough:
I heard the bells on Christmas Day Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat Of “Peace on earth, good will to men.”
And in despair I bowed my head; “There is no peace on earth,” I said,
For hate is strong and mocks the song Of “Peace on earth, good will to men.”
Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep.”
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, With “Peace on earth, good will to men.”
At this Christmas time, whether you are in sorrow or in joy, please know that God is not dead, nor is He asleep. He knows your every need and longs to comfort you and be the friend and Savior you need. Seek Him this season, and He will give your life meaning and your heart peace. For His is the real and true peace, the peace that surpasses all human understanding, the peace that comes because you know your sins are forgiven.
A peace-filled Christmas to you all.
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