Christmas is the time for holiday cheer, spending time with loved ones, and remembering those who used to celebrate with us in years past. There are some Christmas traditions, passed down through the generations of our families. We build on our traditions when we go out on our own. Whether we get married and have families or stay single, the symbols of Christmas keep hope alive. That is what makes Christmas special, old traditions blending with new ones as they pass through the family line.

Evergreens

Evergreens are symbolic and revered in ancient times as promises of rebirth and renewal. These stately trees remain green through the darkest of winter months and they grow despite the fact that others are in dormancy. Some cultures thought they could ward off evil spirits and protect their home.

The Colors of Christmas

Red is the first color of Christmas and green is the second color. Religiously the evergreen tree represents hope of eternal life. The needles point toward the heavens. This should serve as a reminder that our thoughts should turn heavenward. We have red balls as ornaments as a symbol of the blood shed for us by the One who was born on Christmas day.

Silver Bells

The silver bell guides lost sheep to safety. It is the symbol that we should follow the true Shepherd. In olden times, before we had lights to plug in and twinkle, people used to place candles on their tree. Each flame symbolizes one of God's children and their light shines for all to see as they do well and glorify God.

The Candy Cane

The stripes on the candy cane are symbolic with the red and white colors. The white represents the virgin birth and pure sinless nature of Jesus. The candy canes of years ago had three narrow red stripes. This represented the scourging Jesus received. They represent our healing. The large wide red strip represents the blood that Jesus shed to save us so we may spend all eternity in heaven. Even the way it is shapes is symbolic as the Shepherd's crook. He uses this to reach down into the dark places of the world lifting out His people who have fallen or gone astray. The hardness of the candy represents the Solid Rock foundations and God's promises are firm.

Further Thoughts

Therefore, as we decorate the tree this year, we should remember. It does not matter if your tree is artificial or live. You may have bought one that you can plant outdoors when spring comes. However way you celebrate, the meaning is still the same. There are many promises connected with that one tree. It not only is something pretty to look at, provide a place to put our presents, or those that Santa brings. It brings so much more.