One December he encountered a group of people standing beneath an oak tree ready to sacrifice a child to please their god, Odin. He rescued the child and chopped down the tree. Finding a tiny fir tree that was growing beside the trunk of the oak tree he gave it to the people saying, "this is the symbol of life. Whenever you look at the tree, remember the Christ child who is the one who will give you life, because he gave his life for you." He called it the tree of the Christ child.
The Christmas tree was a significant part of the German celebration of Christmas long before it appeared in Britain. Most people would not think about the German Church Reformer Martin Luther in connection with Christmas tree, but it is told that in December 1540 he brought a fir tree into his home. The evergreen tree reminded him that life continued through the winter, when most of nature appeared to have died. He attached a number of small candles to illuminate the tree to express that Christ was indeed welcome in his home at the Light of the World. The evergreen tree to symbolise the life that Jesus gives to us. In 1841 Queen Victoria's husband, the German born Prince Albert, introduced the Christmas tree into Britain. He arranged for one to be installed in Windsor Castle.
Whenever you see a Christmas tree let it remind you that in the midst of death Jesus brings life and as you see the lights on the tree remember Christ as the Light of the World. At this time of year it is great to be part of the church celebrating the greatest gift of all.
A very happy Christmas to you all.
Pastor Mick |
