The Symbol of the Christmas Tree
Have you ever wondered how the tradition of the Christmas tree started? It was actually developed in early modern Germany with predecessors that can be traced to the 16th and possibly 15th century, in which devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes. It acquired popularity beyond Germany during the second half of the 19th century, at first among the upper classes.
Some people today think that the tree is something that Christian’s shouldn’t partake in, saying that it has to do with pagan beliefs, etc. I recently found a great story on what we could make it be all about. Let’s use this each and every year to show what the meaning of the tree can be in our families:
“Because it stays green all through the year, the evergreen tree is symbolic of eternal life in Christ. The treetop points heavenward. A star signifies the special star that guided the wise men to Bethlehem. Lights represent Christ, the light of the world. Gifts beneath the tree are representative of God’s gift of His only begotten Son, who brings hope, love, joy & peace.”
That, to me, sounds much better than just the present keeper as some people call it. We all need to make a firm effort to bring Christmas back to what it’s 
supposed to be. I heard on the news today that after Christmas, depression rates skyrocket. This is due to the living up to what the world feels is best and feeling that gifts are the meaning behind this holiday.
There is one gift that this holiday is about – and that’s Jesus Christ! And the true meaning of Christmas is love. John 3:16-17 says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.” The true meaning of Christmas is the celebration of this incredible act of love.
The real Christmas story is the story of God’s becoming a human being in the Person of Jesus Christ. Why did God do such a thing? Because He loves us! Why was Christmas necessary? Because we needed a Savior! Why does God love us so much? Because He is love itself (1 John 4:8). Why do we celebrate Christmas each year? Out of gratitude for what God did for us, we remember His birth by giving each other gifts, worshiping Him, and being especially conscious of the poor and less fortunate.
The true meaning of Christmas is love. God loved His own and provided a way—the only Way—for us to spend eternity with Him. He gave His only Son to take our punishment for our sins. He paid the price in full, and we are free from condemnation when we accept that free gift of love. “But God demonstrated His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8).
Let’s turn this holiday around and make it a HOLYday, which is the true meaning of the 25th of December. Thank you God for sending your Son to die in our place. It’s a blessing to know that if we believe in Him and have Him in our heart that we will be saved!! Merry CHRISTmas all!!
Thanks for sharing great info. My 6 year old is still wanting to read Christmas books and the 8 year old started complaining that christmas is over. I told him we need to celebrate Christmas year round as it is about Christ
For sure, that’s the most important…it’s who it’s about! 🙂
What a great post, I wish I had read it sooner, I’ve taken another look at the beauty that is Christmas, I’ve decided that each year it is important to keep things simple and in focus of what the season means. We are so blessed. I hope you and yours had a wonderful Christmas.
No problem, Rose – we were all a bit busy!! We did have a great Christmas. Praying that you have a blessed New Year! 🙂
great post, and I love Christmas Trees! always sad to take it down, but can see evergreen trees outside still.
That’s the best part of living in the mountains, or an area like it! 🙂