It is true that the
origins of a cut down, decorated tree may have its root in paganism, as can be
read in Jeremiah 10:1-5. In later years, pagans would also bring
fir trees into their homes at Yuletide because it represented everlasting life
and fertility. However, history tells us
that it was an 8th-century English missionary in Germany that first introduced
the tree as a symbol of remembrance of Christ’s birth. Author Henry Van Dyke recounted
these events in his fictionalized short story “The First Christmas Tree.”
Considering that the
curse was introduced through a tree in the Garden of Eden, I believe it is
quite fitting that our redemption is signified through the Tree of Life, Jesus,
who is our Vine and as Christians, we are His branches. Conifers, like the Pine tree are also
evergreen, which represents the everlasting life we get through Christ. The
Cross that Jesus was crucified to was also made of wood from a tree. And lastly,
its triangular shape represents the trinity, which makes this tree the perfect
representative, especially when we consider the many tree references there are
in the Bible.
As Christians, we get
to choose whether to put a star or an angel on the top of our tree, both of
which heralded the announcement and place of where Jesus was born. It is also
fitting that the fir tree mentioned in Isaiah 41:19; and 60:13
draws attention to the future glory of the temple in Jerusalem that would be
built with its noble wood.
The bright twinkling
lights on the Christmas tree is a metaphor for the light of Christ, who
illuminates the darkness with His hope and salvation. The soft glow is also a reminder to us to
shine the light of Jesus to others.
Each ornament can be
carefully chosen to represent something to do with Jesus, His birth, the
characters of the Nativity scene, or even something to represent the many gifts
God has given us. Each ornament then becomes a small piece of the Christmas
story and of our faith and blessings, woven into each branch. These symbols can
remind us of the sacredness of the season and our love for God, who gave us the
greatest gift of His son. Having replaced many of my ornaments over the year
with ones with more meaning, I can honestly say that this does make a
difference. Even a snowman can remind us that Jesus has washed us clean as white
as snow!
Putting up the tree
together as a family can become a sacred ceremony instead of just a holiday
tradition. Finding Jesus in the tree helps us connect with the spiritual
essence of this special season and the reason we celebrate it. As a family, it is a special time where we
can feel the presence of Jesus, through the joy, love and peace we experience,
whilst singing along to Christmas Carols.
In a world filled with
the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, finding Jesus offers a moment of
respite and spiritual connection. It is a reminder that amidst the festivities,
the heart of Christmas lies in the birth of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To
me, Christmas is not just one day, but a season and spirit of goodwill and joy as
we gather in love to remember and celebrate the birth of our King!
Lastly, the gifts under
the tree that we get to give and receive from our loved ones is a reminder that
it is Jesus’s birthday! Yet, it is His
presence that is more important that the presents, for they represent the many
gifts we receive spiritually. It also teaches
us to be generous and meaningful givers.
This year, let us find
a deeper connection to our faith by seeking the presence of Jesus in the heart
of our Christmas decorations, traditions and celebrations.
Wishing you and your
family a meaningful and tree-mendous Christ-mas and a faith-filled festive season!
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