Dec 7th, 2021: Christmas Tree


Christmas Tree is the central piece of Christmas decorations in any family living room at this time of the year. We decorate our tree with ornaments and then leave gifts under it. It shines with beautiful lights and colors. We usually place an angel or a star on top of the tree. Most Christmas trees are pine.


There are many traditions and cultural significance when it comes to pine trees. Let us look at some.


Greeks: gifts were left under the tree as sacrifices to the gods.

Offering our life as a living sacrifice is a biblical concept. Would we leave our lives as gifts under the tree this year?

Romans 12: 1-2

"I appeal to you, therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.


Romans: pine trees were a testimony of light to them.

Being the light to the world is another biblical truth. Light will overcome darkness. 

Matthew 5: 16

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."


Chinese and Japanese: Pine and cypress trees are sacred in these two cultures. They are also associated with the meaning of immortality, longevity. They build temples with the pine tree wood.

The belief in immortality (eternal life) is the focal point of the Christian faith. We are learning to live our lives with that conviction. All of that begins with the Christmas account.

John 8:51

"Truly, truly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he will never see death."

We are the temples of the Holy Spirit, and God dwells within us. God does not just call from the outside. He has chosen to reside within us if you are willing.

1 Corinthians 6: 18-20

"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies."

 

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