The Origin of the Christmas Tree

Written by Brother Ed Sickles

As you look at the beautifully decorated trees at Christmas, do you ever wonder about the origin of this tradition?

When you really think about it you realize that there’s a great and marvelous story being told.

It truly is one of the most marvelous symbols of the real meaning of the Christmas season.

The meaning behind the tree

The top of the tree is usually decorated with a wonderful star or perhaps a beautiful angel. Usually the top is illuminated with a light or sometimes it may be a candle. The appearance of the bright star or angel reminds us that God is still actively involved in revealing Himself to mankind.

The night Jesus was born in Bethlehem, the archangel Gabriel appeared to the shepherds announcing the wonderful birth of the Savior into the world. And then there was the star that moved across the sky while the three wise men from the East followed it. They knew, that at a certain time, a child would be born that would rule as King of a kingdom that would never end. They went and worshiped Him, presenting him with precious gifts.

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The colorful decorations and beautiful lights, pictures of loved ones, lovely ornaments, more angels and stars, sparkling trinkets along with some glittering tinsel remind us of the magnificent gift that our Heavenly Father presented to all humankind that night.

The gifts that are so lovingly wrapped and placed under the tree were originally intended as reminders of God’s gift of love and our response to his gift. People were giving to show their love and belief in Christ, for everything He did and the love that was shown toward them when He died on the cross.

This gift from God is with us throughout the year but we memorialize it by putting up a tree during the Christmas season. The decorated tree is a visual reminder that on that night long ago God sent us the greatest gift that has ever been given, His Son Jesus Christ. He is still with us today.

John 3:16 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.”

If you would like to have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ, you can say this prayer:

Lord Jesus, I need You. Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins. I open the door of my life and receive You as my Savior and Lord. Thank You for forgiving my sins and giving me eternal life. Take control of the throne of my life. Make the kind of person You want me to be.