Christmas Traditions
In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. John 1:4
What says “Christmas” more than seeing a nicely-decorated tree? We enjoy seeing decorated trees in people’s homes, in businesses, in our churches, outside and inside. For many families, a tradition going back many years is decorating a tree, whether it is one they cut themselves, bought, or maybe even brought out of a box from the attic.
A tree set up near Christmas time may mean different things to different people. For some, it may have no meaning at all. It may be only a nice addition to their other holiday decorations. For the Christian, a tree in our home or church points us to Christ and what He came to do for us!
Our lives can often seem quite withered, dull, and brown, kind of like a “Charlie-Brown Christmas tree.” We get weighed down with the burden of our sin. The prospect of any kind of relief and new life can appear so far away. But, the Savior tells us in His Word: “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)
Almost universally, trees used at Christmas are evergreen. When other trees have lost their leaves and colors, the evergreen is still green. The life which you and I have as believers in Christ is not just for a little while. The life which the Savior came to win for us is everlasting life! What we have in Christ does not grow old, get robbed of its joy, or lose its beauty.
For several centuries, believers have been decorating and lighting trees as a way to be reminded of the light and life brought to this world with the birth of the Savior Jesus long ago. Whenever we trim our tree at home, or look upon one which has been beautifully-decorated, may we rejoice over He who brings us peace and joy, not just at Christmas, but always!
Dear Savior, keep us always looking to You, who is our light and life! Amen.