The Meaning of the Christmas Wreath and Poinsettia

Today I thought we would explore the meaning behind a couple more traditional Christmas decorations.

The Christmas Wreath

(Credit for this image goes to www.4giftgiving.com.)

The circular shape represents eternity with no beginning and no end. The evergreen color, as with the Christmas tree, signifies eternal life.

Christmas wreaths are typically made from pine or holly branches. In the case of holly branches, the leaves have thorns representative of the thorns in the crown placed on Jesus' head before his crucifixion. The red holly berries remind us of the blood He shed when He paid the ultimate sacrifice and died for our sins. (Information gathered from holidayinsights.com.)

The Christmas Poinsettia

(Credit for this image goes to www.giftlebanon.com.)

The poinsettia is native to Mexico and is named for Dr. Joel Poinsett, who was the US Minister to Mexico in 1825. It is believed that he was the first to bring the plant to America in 1828. Apparently, the Mexicans in the 18th century believed the plants were symbolic of the Star of Bethlehem and that is how it became associated with the Christmas season. The actual flower of the plant is small and yellow. It is surrounded by bright red leaves often mistaken for petals.

Mexican legend also tells the story of a little girl who wept on her way to church on Christmas Eve because she had no gift to bring. As she knelt on the ground to pray, she saw the red beauty of the plant and took it to the Christ child as her gift. (Thank you to Rev. Eric Stroshine and wilstar.com for this information.)

I haven't yet gotten myself a poinsettia this year. I think I need to go in search of one tomorrow.

Christmas Blessings,