The trend these last few years, in the selection of a tree is going in a different direction. Several decades ago when artificial trees were introduced with their glitter and tinsel, people adopted a substitute for the once meaningful tree displayed in our homes. Now midst the chaos and confusion we are experiencing, people are reaching out with more nurturing ways to express their celebrations. And now instead of reaching for that dusty box in the attic, more Christmas tree lots are frequented with holiday cheer and excitement!
Oh Christmas tree, where have you been?
For your lovely boughs and branches of green we have yearned Your grace we have missed with your pleasant light The scent of pine with its silvery fir and shining candles in the night Oh, what joy you bring of love and hope The star upon your crown pointing towards the shepherd’s song, waiting for the Promised One!
Trees can play an important part in history, there are two very important ones that have left their mark through the ages – and a special promise of one to come!
In the beginning in Eden’s fair garden was a tree of good and evil that was forbidden . . .
They did not listen and partook of the fruit in the midst of the garden . . . With one last look they fled in terror, why do they fear their Heavenly Father? But he spoke these words “Do not be afraid a Savior shall be born in a manger of hay”
His path will be lonely, His friends will forsake Him, on a Tree He will hang weeping . . . This is the second tree in the midst of three . . . In a grave He will lay for three days then rising . . . ascending to heaven, giving us the
hope of His second coming. Eden’s tree will be restored for all who believe, of its fruit they shall eat, this is the third tree in the midst of three, its leaves bringing healing to the nations and forever in heaven and earth there will be peace!
Good morning on this December 4th day of Adventide!
The beauty of the hills against the starry skies
The first Christmas tree had its beginning in Germany in the 16th century, when Christians brought trees into their homes.
There is a story told of Martin Luther, the great Protestant Reformer, who was walking home one wintry night.
And as he gazed upon the snowy hills in the distance, the beauty of the hills silhouetted against the starry skies, he was stricken with the majesty of God’s creation.
Returning home, gathering his children about a tree, they decorated it with candles! 🕯🕯
The nativity scene with holding the Christ Child
Around the year 1226, St Francis of Assisi created the first Nativity scene with live animals, and the manger holding the Christ Child. In the Middle Ages, many people could neither read nor write, and in order to share these heavenly truths, actors traveled from town to town, reenacting these scenes in passion plays. These are just some of many more traditions that are observed at the Advent season!
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