Candy is sweet–and even sweeter when it has meaning.
Call it rationalization so I can feel good about savoring Christmas chocolates all season if I want–I’m fine with that.
Children are fine with it, too.
Why not take this opportunity to teach our children four ways that Christmas candy points to Christ and what He’s done for us while they enjoy a treat?
And while I realize that Hershey’s wasn’t looking for deep spiritual meaning when they created these chocolate-filled treats, I can still find meaning in them:
1. The shape of the candy cane
reminds me Jesus is the Good Shepherd.
When the Savior of the world was born, God sent angels to announce the great news–not to the priests or to royalty–but to certain shepherds. What a beautiful honor God bestowed on these faithful men who protect, seek, save, and care for their sheep—like our Good Shepherd, Jesus Christ.
“I am the Good Shepherd.”
~ John 10:11
2. The grass-green colored candies remind me Jesus came from heaven to earth for us.
Jesus humbled Himself and took on the appearance of a man (Philippians 2:5-11) and dwelt among them (John 1:14) here on earth.
“For I have come down from heaven . . .”
~ John 6:38
3. The red candies remind me of Jesus’ blood shed for us.
Jesus was born to die. He was born to go to the cross, where He bled and died for our sins.
“. . . the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanses us from all sin.
~ I John 1:7
4. The exhilarating burst of chocolate flavor reminds me of the joyous moment when Jesus rose again!
As satisfying as chocolate candy is, nothing satisfies more than knowing Jesus did not remain in the grave. He rose again, defeating sin and death! His death and resurrection means eternal life for us! (Romans 6:23) Amen!
“The angel said to the women, ‘Do not be afraid;
for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified.
He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. . .’”
~ Matthew 28:5-6
Now don’t you feel better about all that Christmas candy your kids are eating!
Seriously, though, what a blessing we’ve received that Jesus Christ obeyed the Father, leaving the perfection of heaven, to come down to earth in the form of a baby, take our sins upon Himself on that rugged cross, die in our place, and then rise again forevermore!
Merry Christmas!
