Fourth Sunday of Advent - Year C - 20th December 2009

The Christmas Season

Much of the Christian meaning behind the symbols of Christmas has faded from the memory of our society. They have been replaced by secular symbols, fairy lights and tinsel and I suggest we reflect on the Christian symbols and discuss them with our children and grandchildren during these final days of Advent.

The tree is an "evergreen" and is one of the few trees that does not die (lose its leaves in winter). For this reason it is a symbol of everlasting life, the precious gift from Jesus to all believers.

The Christmas Candle

At Baptism the parents of the child are handed a small white candle and told: "receive the Light of Christ, may you keep the flame of faith burning brightly in this child who is a new creation." The candles we burn brightly at Christmas remind us of our Baptism and our own adoption as God's children. They equally symbolize Christ who is our Light in the darkness.

Santa Claus

Santa Claus seems to overshadow the true meaning of Christmas and there's a sad irony in this since he is really St. Nicholas. He was generous to the poor and always gave gifts secretly, we are told. In imitation of him, anonymous gift-giving at Christmas time began.

The Star

Many people top their tree with a star or place a star that is brightly lit over their homes. It was the star which led the Magi to the humble crib of the newborn King. The Magi were the first non-Jewish people to visit Christ and they represented all people outside of the nation of Israel. The star can remind us that we are invited to come to Christ and to offer our gifts and talents to Him.

Holly

Long ago, the sharp thorns and red berries reminded Christians of the suffering for which the Infant Messiah was destined. They saw in the thorns the crown which would pierce His head. The berries reminded them of the blood He would shed. Red and green are the colours most used at Christmas. Red symbolizes the blood of Christ. Green is the colour of hope and has always been seem as a sign of life and growth in nature. Love and hope are very much a part of the Christmas story for God became human to prove His love for us.