“The Symbols of Christmas,” Friend, December 2022, 24–25
The Symbols of Christmas
Here’s a Christmas activity you could do for family night!
1
Christmas is a special time of year. We sing joyful songs. We decorate our homes. And we give each other gifts. It’s a lot of fun! But the colorful gifts and decorations have a special meaning too. They remind us of Jesus Christ, His birth, and all He gave to us. They help us remember the true reason we celebrate Christmas.
Sing: “Once within a Lowly Stable” (Children’s Songbook, 41)
2
All over the world, people have Christmas trees. Some people decorate mango trees or banana trees. Many people use an evergreen tree. An evergreen tree stays green all year long. That can remind us that Jesus gives us eternal life.
3
The color red is also an important symbol of Christmas. Red can help us remember the Savior’s Atonement and the blood He shed for each of us. It can also help us look forward to His Second Coming, when He will wear a red robe!
4
Candy canes look like the sticks that shepherds use to lead their sheep. They can remind us of the shepherds who came to see baby Jesus. They can also remind us that Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd. He will lead us to safety and peace.
5
Lights are everywhere at Christmas. They are like the star that shone in the sky when Jesus Christ was born. The shepherds and Wise Men followed the star to find Him. We can choose to follow Him too.
Sing: “Stars Were Gleaming” (Children’s Songbook, 37)
6
Bells ring to tell good news. Bells at Christmas can remind us of the good news of Jesus Christ’s birth and Atonement.
7
The Wise Men gave gifts to Jesus. We give gifts at Christmas too. They can remind us of all the wonderful things Heavenly Father and our Savior give us. Remember that Jesus is the true gift of Christmas!
8
We hope the lights, decorations, and happiness of Christmas fill you with joy and warmth. May they each remind you of Jesus Christ and all He does for us. Merry Christmas!
Sing: “Joy to the World” (Hymns, no. 201)
Illustrations by Thomas S. Child