Howdy Friends! In recent years, I have pondered the question, “Should a Christian have a Christmas tree?” I really don’t know. There are a lot of “acceptable by today’s standards ideas” about many things that when one begins to truly study, one discovers a Christian should not do. But Christians do. Some I wrestle with, some are easy to figure out. Some not so much (I think I have aged our Pastor a bit). But in my research regarding the Christmas tree I discovered this.
Did You Know: Martin Luther, the great reformer, may have also popularized the tradition of the Christmas tree as a way to express and teach theology to his family. The story goes that, while he was on his way home one evening, he became overwhelmed by the incredible beauty of a fir tree positioned against the backdrop of the brilliant starlit sky. He so desperately wanted to describe what he had seen to his family, but the words failed him. So he ventured back outside and chopped down one of these trees, bringing it home to share with his family. He even decorated the tree with candle tapers, mimicking the stars that hung over the manger where the newborn Messiah lay.
Christmas is still a time to remember. The sights and sounds may have been different, but Martin Luther loved Christmas because it reminded him of the purity, beauty, and truth of the Jesus story.
~ Gitty Up, Dutch.
PS – I love and believe in Martin Luther. His work and devotion is brilliant, and of course helped change the course of world history. But in some areas I’m still contemplating him.
You all may have noticed I saddle up more with John Calvin, whom I consider the strongest reformer of them all. So far have found nothing of his opinions of a Christmas tree.
