“O night divine, O night when Christ was born”
Many versions of “O Holy Night” beautifully describe this night as found in the Gospel (Luke 2:8-14). God sent Jesus, the Word, into this world as Savior of those who receive him. Jesus is the great sacrifice given by our Heavenly Father to forgive our sins and restore us back to His own fellowship in Heaven. The angel said, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)
You may be surprised that in Islam, there is also a special night known as ‘Laylat Al Qadr’ – the night of “power” traditionally celebrated during the last night of the month of Ramadan. Many Muslims pray continuously during this night for mercy, forgiveness, and salvation. This practice is also called Ihya’ – (meaning revival, also means to spend the night in prayer). It is believed that the angel Gabriel came to Muhammad on such a night, beginning with the exhortation: "Read! In the Name of your Lord, Who has created (all that exists)," (Sura 96:1ff).