Day 7 - Christmas Carols

We love to hear and sing Christmas carols (and no, "Grandma got run over by a reindeer" does not count).

We prefer the ones that tell the story of Jesus' birth. Christmas carols remind us to share the story of Jesus with others.

Sing joyfully to the LORD , you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him. Praise the LORD with the harp; make music to him on the ten-stringed lyre. Sing to him a new song; play skillfully, and shout for joy. -- Psalm 33:1-3

Day 6 - St. Nick

We don't really like the fat guy in the red suit - he takes away from the true meaning of Christmas. However, Saint Nicholas was a real person with a positive message.

Although he lived so long ago it is hard to separate the fact from the legend, what we do know is that he was very generous and helped others. So he is a reminder that we ought to seek ways to give to others.

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: -- Philippians 2

Day 5 - Ornaments

Why do we hang ornaments on trees? Certainly to "dress" them up, but long ago, people would hang apples on their trees. Since fruit often grows on trees this makes sense. So the ornaments can remind us of another type of fruit: the fruit of the Spirit.

"The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness,

goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control." -- Galatians 5:22

Day 4 - Bells

"I heard the bells on Christmas Day..."

Well, maybe that song is not as well known as other songs, but I have always liked it. Bells seem to go with Christmas (Jingle Bells). They have a deep, joyful sound and they are a reminder to be joyful.

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness;come before him with joyful songs. --Psalm 100

Day 3 - Lights

Christmas lights are nice to look at. Although they are less plentiful here in Japan, you can find them if you look. The lights remind us of what Jesus said: "You are the light of the world... let your light shine before men!" (Matthew 5)

Day 2 - The Tree

On Day 2 we focus on the tree.

An evergreen tree remains green and full of life all year long, so it is a fitting symbol of eternal life. When we look at a Christmas Tree, it should remind us of the eternal life that His children receive from God.

For God so loved the world, that He gave His only son. Those that believe on Him shall receive Eternal Life. --John 3:16

Day 1 - The Wreath

Day One is for Wreath.

The Wreath reminds us that God's love never ends. The shape of a wreath is a circle, which has no beginning and no end. Just as a wedding ring is a symbol of love, so is the wreath; God's love is eternal!

"I have loved you with an everlasting love." Jeremiah 31:3