The Christmas Tree

The Christmas tree has a long history. Like the luminaria, the symbolism originated in the darkness of the change of seasons. The evergreen branches were used to ward off evil spirits and to bring prosperity. These customs were esp. important to the Roman December celebration of Saturnalia. For centuries the Church prohibited use of evergreen boughs in Christian celebrations because of the pagan connection.

The current custom of Christmas trees seems to have originated in Germany. Legend has it that Martin Luther noticed how lovely the stars looked amid the evergreens in the forest and brought one home for his children to remind them of God’s creation. Despite opposition by Calvin and other Reformers, the tree was here to stay.

The Christmas tree came to England when Prince Albert (of Germany) gave Queen Victoria a tree in 1841. German immigrants to America brought the tradition to the United States. Soon ornaments, paper chains, candles (and then electric lights) were found on the trees.

Whether your tree is artificial, freshly cut or living, the beauty and symbolism brighten homes and businesses throughout the season. The addition of a few baubles and tinsel transforms the most scrawny tree into a thing of beauty.

As Linus so eloquently put it, "I never thought it was such a bad little tree. It's not bad at all, really. Maybe it just needs a little love."

Maybe we all need the reminder that we are not ‘bad little trees’, all we need is a ‘little love’ to become beautiful in adoration of the Holy Child.

See you tomorrow.