Something From Years Gone By...2000-2001?

A CHRISTMAS TREE
by: James Wells

Ah yes, the Christmas tree, some plastic, some real, some pine, some fir. Big ones, small ones, fat ones, skinny ones, crooked, straight, bare spots, perfect shape, you name it everyone has their wants and wishes, needs and desires, likes and dislikes. But take a moment and let’s take another look at an old friend.

Does your Christmas tree reflect your life? I hope so. Let’s begin at the bottom. Stands come in several shapes and styles, and can be made from several different materials. No matter the shape or construction it must be sturdy and support the weight of the tree and all the lights and ornaments. Likewise we need a sturdy foundation in our lives. We must have a solid platform to hold us upright and allow us to bear not only our own burdens, but also those that get placed on us over the years.

If you opt for a live tree, then you must also keep it watered. Therefore our stands must be capable of holding water to nourish the tree day after day, helping to keep it fresh. Is the foundation that supports your life capable of doing just that? Replenishing you, feeding you. Does it help to sustain you when everything else seeks to leave you withered and fragile?
Moving up the tree we get to the good stuff. Bright lights, shiny ornaments, small treasures collected throughout the years. So you’re asking, “How is this like my life?” Each of our lives has bright moments, our own set of twinkling lights that help to make us who we are and help us to stand out. Sure, every now and then a bulb burns out. In a similar fashion, trouble may cause a small dark spot in our lives or perhaps tragedy darkens an entire “string” of your life. But, more often than not, we find that a brand new bright spot helps to bring back the light and we rejoice in the knowledge that those shining moments we thought were lost, are in fact as radiant as ever.

Each of us can remember making an ornament as a child. We can remember the pride we felt to see it on the tree. Parents, you no doubt have hung those ornaments upon the tree while reflecting back upon years gone by. “Here is the one that he made in the first grade..I still remember her painting this one...” Each one is treasured, each one covers and decorates the tree. Our memories cover and decorate our lives. Each one is a treasured memento of years gone by. No matter how worn, how battered, we cling to them because of the joy they bring. Yes, often they fade, dim, or become broken, yet, we cherish them as if they were new.

Here we are, at the top. What do you top off your tree with? Star, Angel, or Santa Claus. No matter which you choose, I hope your life is crowned in similar fashion. Whether it be like a star, a beacon of hope, a light used by others to find there way through the darkest nights they face. Maybe, like the angels, it brings Gods glory to others, offering them inspiration and comfort in times of need. Or, perhaps, in the same spirit as Santa Claus, your life is a reflection of unselfish and unrestrained giving.

So then, as we gather around our trees this Christmas, let us, let God use us as his Christmas trees. Let his love be your stand, let his word nourish you, let him be in control of the bright times, because only he can replace the burned out bulbs. Neither he nor you will forget the memories you share, and in the end you will find that he tops it all off by making your life an inspiration and guide to others.