Angels on Trees, Traditions and Truth

                                                            

   Is a tree top angel part of your Christmas tradition?  Even if you are familiar with their announcements to Bethlehem shepherds about the Savior’s birth, do you know how angel decorations came about?

     Seven year old Brynn happily and carefully hung ornaments on the freshly cut evergreen tree.  Picking out the right one, lighting and decorating the Hanson family’s Christmas tree was a project they traditionally did together.  Because her teen brother was the tallest, Brynn reminded him, “Jacob, put the angel on the very top!” 

What exactly is an angel?

Scripture tells us that angels were created by God to serve him but some rejected that position.  These sinning creatures are “in chains of darkness to be held for judgment” (2 Peter 2:4). Although most artists have depicted angels with feminine features, these winged messengers are neither male nor female (Matthew 22:30). 

        Angels not only ministered to Jesus (in his humbled state as man) after the devil tempted him (Matthew 14:11) but they also assist us.  Matthew indicates that children, or those with trusting, childlike faith, have special high-ranking angels who serve them and God (Matthew 18:10).  

All Christians can feel secure in the promises: “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them" (Psalm 34:7), and “He will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways." (Psalm 91:11)

 Angels are jealous that we get to share the gospel (I Peter 1:12) and they rejoice every time someone repents and stops sinning (Luke 15:10).

        Angel Communication

   Praying to (or worshipping) angels is condemned in the Bible as “idle notions.” (Colossians 2:18)  We may wish that angels would communicate with us.  But in every case of their Christmas message-giving to:  Mary (Luke 1), Joseph (Matthew 1) and the shepherds (Luke 2), the angels needed to assure them, “Don’t be afraid!”  

   If you saw other-worldly, brilliantly shining, winged, powerful creatures wouldn’t you be terrified?

 How did the Christmas tree angel become a tradition ? 

Over 500 years ago, people in the country of Latvia put roses on fir tree branches in homes, churches and town squares.  Eventually, throughout the years, fruit, nuts and cookies were added as decorations.  Queen Victoria and Prince Albert are credited for popularizing an angel topper in 1848, when the London News published a drawing of their “Christmas tree at Windsor Castle”.

Do you have a Christmas tree topper preference?  Does a bright winged messenger, a wise men star, or something else crown your “Happy Birthday Jesus” tree?   I would enjoy reading posts and seeing photos about your tradition.  Please share!

 

        DID YOU KNOW??    

    In the early 1950’s "angel hair" (made from strips of fiberglass, aluminum, human or horse hair) was used.  Some children were told that angels had decorated the tree, their hair getting caught in the branches.  During my childhood of the 60’s these toxic streamers were called icicles.  Although dangerous, spun glass angel hair can still be ordered on line, hopefully for those who do not have pets or children who might eat it!