The Nativity Scene: Legend tells us that Saint Francis of Assisi constructed the first nativity scene. His depiction included live animals. Francis knew that all the earth can be “holy land.”
The Candy Cane: The candy cane represents one of the oldest symbols of Christmas, the shepherd’s crook, for the shepherds were among the first to experience that first Christmas. The colours of the candy cane have special meaning, too.
The wide red stripe represents the sacrifice of Christ, “For by his stripes we are healed.” The narrow red stripes represent our own sacrifices (giving). The white stripe is a symbol of purity. The peppermint plant is a member of the hyssop family, referred to in the Old Testament as a medicinal herb used for cleansing.
The Christmas Tree: The Christmas tree, which is an evergreen with it’s boughs stretched toward heaven, reminds us of the everlasting life that Christ came to bring sinners. The candles or lights on the tree remind us that Jesus is the light of the world.
This surely is what Martin Luther envisioned back in 1535 when he cut and decorated the first Christmas tree for his children. Prince Albert carried the Christmas tree custom from Germany to Windsor Castle in 1841.
Santa Claus: There are many stories of how the legend of Santa Claus began. One story says that the modern Santa finds his origin in a young pastor named Nicholas. His parents died when he was still a boy, leaving him a fortune. He loved the Lord and cared deeply for those in need. Not wanting to receive any glory himself, he went secretly, during the night, to the homes of poor families. There he left gifts and money because of his love for Christ.
Holly Leaf: The sharp pointy edges of the holly leaf remind us of the crown of thorns that
Jesus wore upon his brow. The red berries remind us of the blood that Jesus shed.
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