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Martin Luther and the first Christmas tree

Martin Luther didn't invent the use of a Christmas tree. In 1510, it was the custom to hang the
Christmas tree upside down inside the home from the rafters without decoration. But one snowy,
cold night, Martin Luther found himself in the dark German forest, shivering cold and frightened of
wild animals and losing his way. He had been deep in thought over the theme for his next sermon
and lost all track of time. Now evening had grown out of twilight. In the midst of his fear, he
looked up and saw the twinkling stars. The lights God placed in the sky warmed his heart and
calmed his fears. Now comforted by the assurance of God's plan for him, he looked around and
found a small fir tree to take to his home for Christmas. Once he and the little fir tree were safe at
home, he set to work preparing a surprise for his family. Contrary to the custom of the day, Martin
Luther decorated his tree with little candles which reminded him of the twinkling stars which
blanketed the night sky, covering the snowy trees.

Martin Luther recalled his forest adventure to his curious family members, telling them of his fear
and how God had seemed to say to him through the stars, "Fear not, for I am with you." He sited
Isaiah 60:13 as a Biblical support for the tree, decorated to remind him always that God sent us a
light to guide us through the darkest night. And at Christmas, we celebrate the gift of that light of
the world, Jesus Christ.

Incidentally, do you know which verses of the Bible brought the Father of the Reformation, Martin
Luther, to an understanding of the Grace of God? They were Romans 1:16-17:

Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to
every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Rom 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written. The
just shall live by faith.

May the joy and spirit of Christ always light your way,

The Potts family

Mike, Stephanie, Zack and Mikhaila

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