'PEACE ON EARTH' WASN'T THE CHRISTMAS MESSAGE

Every Christmas we see and hear the message “Peace on earth and goodwill among men” in Christmas cards, newspapers, magazines, display material on radio and television.

- By Upatissa Attygalle

Even wars are halted by mutual consent of the parties concerned. Such temporary ceasefires are considered to represent the “peace on earth’ significance of Christmas.

First, let us see what man considers ‘Peace’ to man. Primarily, peace is considered a state in which people coexist without hostilities. The world is said to be at peace when there is an absence of war among states and nations. But the individual expects much more of peace. He expects to be free from want of money, food, clothing, shelter and other necessities of life. He wants to enjoy good health, to have security of employment and safety of his bodily self and possessions In fact, man expects peace to be a life free of worries and problems.

Next, let us find out how the popular belief that the message of Christmas is ‘Peace on Earth’ became accepted. In his gospel St. Luke records the message brought by an angel to some shepherds on the day that Christ was born in Bethlehem “An angel of the Lord” appeared to them. They were terribly afraid, but the angel said to them “don’t be afraid! I am here with good news for you, which will bring great joy all the people. This very day in David’s town your saviour was born Christ the Lord!” (Luke 2.9-11).