Sunday, December 15, 2013

Advent Third Sunday - Christmas Tree


Strange thing – you cut down a tree – bring it inside the house – hang stuff on it – put lights on it.

Jesus life connected to trees – carpenter – manger – boat – cross

Evergreen – stays green all winter – sign of life in death

Martin Luther – walking through woods – starlight through trees – put candles on tree – not popular with fire department – Thomas Edison took care of that.

Angel or star on top

Angel – Glory to God in the highest

Star – Star of Bethlehem

JPII first to bring tree to Vatican – with beautiful Nativity in St. Peter’s Square.

 Few years back, Pope Benedict invited to Gubbio to bless a huge Christmas tree.

Made three wishes:

1)    Many look at the bottom of the tree where the presents are – what did I get for Christmas? His 1st wish – look up – toward heaven – toward God.  Baptist said: he must increase, I must decrease – I am not worthy to untie his sandals.

2)    Trees give off light – the light was shining upon the shepherds – we too need that light to show us the path when it is dark, when we are afraid or worried. 2nd wish – see that the baby, born in Bethlehem, is the Light of the World.  Baptist said: Look, the Lamb of God!

3)    Tree is made of many lights, not just one light. 3rd wish that we would not be selfish but would become lights for others – just as JB was a light.  Words written on Newtown bus : Be nice to each other. It’s really all that matters word s by Principal who gave her life.

 Blessing of the Christmas Tree

 God of all creation, we praise you for our Christmas trees which bring beauty and memories and the promise of life to our homes.

May your blessings be upon all who gather around our trees, all who keep the Christmas festival by its lights.

We wait for the coming of Christ, the days of everlasting justice and peace. You are our God, living and reigning, forever and ever, Amen.