The Message of the Christmas Tree

Between 25–30 million real (cut) Christmas trees will be sold and displayed this year in the U.S., and another 83% of households will use an artificial tree. Christmas trees have become one of the dominant cultural symbols of the Christmas season.

The tradition of the Christmas tree traces back to 16th-century Germany, where Christians began bringing evergreen trees into their homes and decorating them. Tradition says that Martin Luther added candles to a tree to represent the beauty of the stars shining on the night of Christ’s birth.

Over the years, the tree and its decorations have come to symbolize the coming and incarnation of Christ:

• Evergreen branches represent eternal life, pointing to Christ who gives everlasting life.

• The triangular shape reflects the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

• The lights signify Christ as the Light of the World (John 8:12).

• The star on top recalls the Star of Bethlehem that guided the wise men.

• The ornaments symbolize the blessings of God and the joy of Christ’s coming.

• The gifts under the tree remind us of God’s greatest gift—Jesus—and of the Magi bringing gifts to the Christ child.

Over the years, I have often seen the following Christmas Tree Word Art on cards, reminding us of the true reason we celebrate this wonderful season of our Lord’s advent.

Pastor Jeff

Over the years, I have often seen the following Christmas Tree Word Art on cards, reminding us of the true reason we celebrate this wonderful season of our Lord’s advent.

Foundation Faith Statement #12  Can anyone keep the commands of God perfectly?
Since the fall, no one has been able to keep the commands of God perfectly, but consistently breaks it in thought, word, and deed (Romans 3:10–12).