Christmastime

It's my favorite time of year! And it always starts off with decorating the Christmas tree...

Pre-decorated

Hard at work...

Decorated! Isn't it beautiful?

I just love this time of year because it really gives us the opportunity to think about Christ. After watching last night's Devotional, I'm so glad we have this season to really contemplate the meaning of Christmas. I think we sometimes get caught up in the commercialization of Christmas and loose sight of what is really important. I definitely get caught up in the hustle-bustle of Christmas. So, I've made a list of common symbols we see during Christmastime. Here's what they actually represent*:

Lights (small stars) and Star: We often use lights, candles, and stars in our Christmas decorations. These represent the new star that appeared when Christ was born.
Scripture: Matthew 2: 9-10.

Candy Canes: This candy is made in the shape of a shepherd’s staff. The shepherds came to see baby Jesus Christ is known as the good shepherd.
Scriptures: Luke 2:8-9; John 10:11.

Angels: Angels announced Christ’s birth to the shepherds.
Scripture: Luke 2: 10-11

Red, White, and Green Ornaments: Christmas colors are symbols of Jesus Christ. Red represents the blood of Christ. Green represents eternal life. White represents the purity of Christ (he was perfect).
Scriptures: Luke 22:44; 3 Nephi 12:48.

Gifts (to put under the tree): Gifts represent the gifts the wise men brought to the Christ child and the gift of the Savior that Heavenly Father gave the world.
Scriptures: Matthew 2:1, 11; John 3:16.

Tree: Christmas trees are evergreen trees. They do not die in the winter, but stay green all year through. This is a symbol of eternal life. Christ has made it possible for us to live in heaven after we die.
Scripture: Moses 1:39

Putting up our Christmas tree is also a long-time tradition for the Hardy family. It gives us the opportunity to spend time together. We make memories while unwrapping our old memorable ornaments. I sure do love my family and I am so grateful I have them to celebrate Christmas!

Merry Christmas and ho ho ho!


*adapted from: http://www.ldsliving.com/story/5277-december-sharing-time-symbols-of-the-savior

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone