March 13: Christ the Redeemer of the Andes

For decades, Argentina and Chile had been locked in bloody border disputes. The third longest boundary in the world, the Argentinian-Chilean border stretched for 5,300 kilometers—much of it in unexplored territories. When the two countries finally came to an agreement, they vowed never again to go to war against each other.

On March 13, 1904, Christ the Redeemer of the Andes was unveiled. This 7 Meter monument was built to commemorate the lasting peace between the two nations. It was reportedly forged from the bronze of cannons that had been used in the conflict. On that day, thousands of Argentinians and Chileans watched as the two armies that had been ready to do battle only a short time before, fired their guns into the air in salute.

The monument stands 3,800 meters above sea level, at the highest point of La Cumbre pass. Each year, thousands make the journey to the summit to see this ornate and majestic tribute to Jesus, the prince of peace. It is enshrined in the magnificent backdrop of the dizzying Andes mountains and overlooks the border of two countries sworn to brotherhood.

At the feet of the statue, an inscription reads “Sooner shall these mountains crumble into dust than Chileans and Argentinians break the peace which at the feet of Christ, the Redeemer, they have sworn to maintain.”

Verse of the day: Isaiah 6:9
He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.¬