The answer is: Angels

Luke 2:13-14 - It is interesting to note that the angels 'said' and did not sing as we are led to believe by many of our popular hymns.

Isn't it fascinating how the message from the angels resonates through time? When the angels proclaimed "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill to men," they positioned Jesus' birth as a divine event with immense significance, radiating hope and peace. The announcement not only marked the arrival of the Messiah but also offered a counter-narrative to a world often united by turmoil.

Naming angels as mere "messengers" could undersell their pivotal role. In biblical tradition, they animatedly carry God’s word. Interestingly, in the original text, the Greek verb used doesn’t imply singing but rather ‘speaking,’ reminding us of their authoritative presence delivering good news. This nuance challenges longstanding church traditions and highlights the excitement surrounding the angelic announcement.

Did you know the backdrop for this scene included Judah’s Roman rule, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty? Yet the angels proclaimed peace during this tumultuous time, hinting at an inner peace many seek. Moreover, the message “goodwill to men” encompasses everyone — it suggests a cosmic inclusiveness that many faith traditions still strive for today.

Additionally, "peace" in the Hebrew context, or Shalom, implied more than the absence of war — it meant wholeness and harmony, a state longed for amidst the chaos of the surrounding world. As we reflect on this pivotal moment, we can ask ourselves how this call for peace and goodwill can inspire our world today to reconcile and uplift one another.