Thursday, December 08, 2005

Christians borrowed tree from pagans

Try as I might, I find no references to a decorated tree in the biblical accounts of Jesus' birth.

As many school children know, this custom was taken from the nature-based religions of Northern Europe.

In other words, Christians appropriated a pagan custom to brighten their celebration of Jesus' birth in December when the Romans and Greeks had their pagan celebrations.

I wonder why there is so much fuss now about returning this symbol back to all people.

For decades, merchants and advertisers have used the Christmas tree to announce the beginning of the shopping season. The more gifts under the tree, the better the Christmas.

I confess that I have a hard time connecting this custom with the child born in the stable, who brought a message of concern for the poor and oppressed. Maybe we all need to ask if that child would approve of how we celebrate his birthday.

Just a thought from another “village idiot.” (Save yourself the postage, whoever you are.)

Rev. Christine Brownlie
Blacksburg

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