“Oh Christmas Tree”

Isaiah 9:2 “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness a light has dawned.”

Several years ago my husband and I decided to plant Blue Spruce Christmas trees. We had high hopes that selling them would help pay for our daughter’s college tuition. In the end, we probably made enough money to pay for about two semester’s worth of books. Not the best business idea. But I don’t regret it.

Although by now the trees have either grown too tall for most living rooms or taken on a pretty straggly appearance, a couple folks still come every year looking for something to make the yuletide bright. And it’s become a special tradition for us to trek up the hill and pick one for ourselves.

But this year’s pickings were slim. We looked and looked, but nothing seemed suitable. Finally, we found one that might work. Although a bit misshapen, full branches covered one side. The problem occurred on the backside. Lots of branches, but no needles! A look only Charlie Brown could appreciate. Since it was the best option, we chopped it down, brought it into the family room, and started to decorate. By the time my husband finished finessing the lights, I was stunned. Something truly beautiful now stood in the place of what started as a somewhat ugly, skinny, half-barren tree.

Kind of like my life. Sometimes I feel full and blessed. But other days, the “backside” takes center stage. Branches of disappointment, sadness and worry create holes that drain me of vitality and mar my appearance. I feel as needy as our little tree, desperate for someone to come and cover my emptiness with lights.

Christmas reminds me Someone has. When Isaiah prophesied about the coming Messiah, he said “a light has dawned.” That Light rearranges my misshapen heart and fills the voids of my darkness. Just like our Christmas tree, I will always be imperfect, but the light of Jesus covers me in a way that reflects his beauty. He’ll do the same for you.

Amazing what a half-Charlie Brown Christmas tree can show you. “Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree, much pleasure doth thou bring me.”