Symbols we see at Christmas and what they mean

As the song says, Christmas is “the most wonderful time of the year.” So many things distinguish Christmas and make it special. Most importantly, this holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. He is the Son of God who entered this world as a newborn child in the stable in Bethlehem. He is truly the “reason of the season”.

Aside from the central event of the birth of Christ, many symbols, songs, and traditions are beloved parts of the celebration for hundreds of millions of people. Christmas symbols that have meaning are numerous.

• Christmas trees are a much-loved part of this holiday tradition. No one knows exactly how Christmas trees became such a significant symbol. However, surely the facts that they are evergreen trees, that they seem to point gracefully towards the sky, and that they symbolize life are factors. Their great beauty when well decorated seems to reflect the beauty and glory of God. The star that is traditionally placed on top reminds us of the star and the heavenly choir on the night Jesus was born.
• The lights that decorate houses and Christmas trees are said to have their origins in pagan religions. For many centuries they have served as a reminder of the star that the wise men followed when Jesus was born. They also remind us that Jesus is the light of the world. Where Jesus is present, there can be no spiritual darkness.
• Even candy canes are a beautiful spiritual symbol of Christmas. Because they were first made in the early 19th century, they are a fairly recent addition to the Christmas tradition. The candy cane is made in the shape of J, the first letter of Jesus. White symbolizes his purity and red symbolizes the festivity of Christmas. The mint flavor represents the sweet experience that comes with one’s spiritual commitment to Christ. Candy canes are often used to help decorate Christmas trees.
• Christmas wouldn’t be so wonderful if we didn’t have the beautiful music that has become such an important part of this festive experience. Hundreds of songs celebrate all things Christmas. Christmas carols that celebrate spiritual truths are much loved. They are sung in churches but are also popular in society at large. Many Christmas songs tell the stories of Santa Claus, families coming together to celebrate, and how this season is different from all others. Who among us doesn’t enjoy hearing “I’m dreaming of a white Christmas”?
• A central tradition in the Christmas celebration is a person named Saint Nicholas, Father Christmas, Father Christmas, Kris Kringle, or one of many other different names. Almost all children love Santa Claus, whatever name they give him, and eagerly anticipate his arrival on Christmas Eve. There are different stories about how Santa Claus became part of the traditions of this holiday, but perhaps the most common dates back to 3rd or 4th century Turkey. Tradition says that a devout Christian, named Saint Nicholas, had a generous heart. He served and helped many poor people. The story goes that he sometimes secretly entered a house to put sweets and coins in the children’s socks. The generosity that Saint Nicholas showed is a good example for children and adults alike.

One might wonder why so many traditions with pagan origins became important symbols in celebrating Christmas. Despite their pagan origins, these symbols speak of a hunger for meaning and spiritual meaning in life. These symbols, being connected with Christmas, have been transformed and no longer speak of pagan customs. They serve as a reminder of all that Christmas symbolizes. This special holiday provides a unique opportunity to extend and receive peace and goodwill. It is a blessing to be able to express my best wishes and goodwill to everyone we come in contact with, regardless of their religion or culture.