Christmas Tree

A decorated Christmas tree is a tradition that is observed by many throughout the world. Every year there are great lighting ceremonies. Trees may be found in numerous public places and also in many homes. From shop windows to parks to living rooms, a lit, decorated Evergreen tree is a symbol of the Christmas season.

Stories of decorated trees date back to the early 1500s. Early trees were decorated with edible treats, such as gingerbread, nuts and fruit. Some were found in city squares and others inside town meeting halls. Many believe that the German preacher, Martin Luther, was the first to bring a tree into his home and light it with candles. Walking through a forest shortly before Christmas, he noticed the stars shining down through the branches of the trees. He told his children this beautiful sight reminded him of the light of Jesus. Bringing a tree into his home, he placed candles in the branches to re-create what he had seen, and to share the beauty with all who entered his home.

Interestingly we not only enjoy a tree with all its lights, but we also bring them into our own homes. In the home we can see and enjoy it at all times. We do not have to go out anywhere to find the beauty of a lit and decorated tree when we have one in our own home. This is another tradition connected this holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.

This tree is not the only tree that is connected to the life of Jesus. The cross upon which Jesus was crucified was hewn from a tree. It was on this tree that Jesus paid the price to bring new life into the hearts of men. “Christ purchased our freedom [redeeming us] from the curse (doom) of the Law [and its condemnation] by [Himself] becoming a curse for us, for it is written [in the Scriptures], Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree (is crucified);” (Galatians 3:13 AMP)

We can see crosses in many locations. Churches all over the world display the cross. Hospitals schools and other facilities operated by Christian organizations will also proudly display the cross. Paintings, photographs and other art forms have re-created this famous tree over and over again. That tree is a symbol of Christ’s love and sacrifice for us.

Just as the Christmas tree has been brought into the home, so we must bring the cross into our own hearts. Visiting a church or admiring a re-creation of the cross will not change our lives. Even discussing or listening to others speak of the crucifixion of Christ will not make a lasting change until we bring the reality of His death on the cross into our own hearts. That reality is clearly stated by the apostle Peter, “The God of our forefathers raised up Jesus, Whom you killed by hanging Him on a tree (cross). God exalted Him to His right hand to be Prince and Leader and Savior and Deliverer and Preserver, in order to grant repentance to Israel and to bestow forgiveness and release from sins.” (Acts 5:30-31 AMP) The death of Jesus on the tree brings forgiveness and frees us from sin.

We also have the great promise that, “But to as many as did receive and welcome Him, He gave the authority (power, privilege, right) to become the children of God, that is, to those who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) His name.” (John 1:12 AMP) Similarly, we are told “Because if you acknowledge and confess with your lips that Jesus is Lord and in your heart believe (adhere to, trust in, and rely on the truth) that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart a person believes (adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Christ) and so is justified (declared righteous, acceptable to God), and with the mouth he confesses (declares openly and speaks out freely his faith) and confirms [his] salvation.” (Romans 10:9-10 AMP) Both of these require not only hearing that the death of Jesus on that tree brings us eternal life, but that we take the action of personally receiving and believing this truth. In essence we must bring the cross into our own hearts.

From inside our hearts the reality of Jesus, and the light He has brought into this world, will shine out for all to see. Here we live constantly in the presence of that light and therefore shine as a reflection of Jesus Christ.

As you enjoy your holiday decorations and especially a Christmas tree, consider the cross on which Jesus died. Thank Him for the salvation He paid for, enjoy His light and reflect it to others.

(Note: This post was inspired by my reflections on a Christmas Eve message I heard this afternoon in a wonderful service with the body of believers with whom I worship regularly.)