The Bible gives no evidence that green, white or red were in any way associated with Christ’s birth. In fact there seems to be no mention of color in any of the passages that narrate the story of the first Christmas. Why then have green, white and red come into our Christmas celebrations? Could these colors have any pagan affiliations like many of the Christmas traditions that Christians unknowingly observe?

To answer these questions, it is important to know that Christmas celebrations are muddled with unwanted traditions from a festival called Yule that is celebrated at just about the same time as Christmas. But this does not mean all Christmas traditions have stemmed out of pagan customs.

Red, white and green may be considered special for various reasons but for Christian believers, these colors are nothing more than a reminder. There is nothing lucky or sacred about the red, white and green that flood homes, Churches and surroundings at Christmas time. But these colors help recall what the babe of Bethlehem born on Christmas Day has accomplished for believers in Christ.

Shades of red remind a believer of what Mary’s boy grew up to accomplish. Red jogs to memory a blood stained cross and the heavy price Jesus paid to give you a clean chit. Each time you see a red Christmas ornament or decoration, thank God for sending His Son to die for you.

Pure white, often combined with red depicts a clean life, delivered from sin and evil secured at the foot of the cross. White also says that you, a believer now share the purity of Christ. Look at the red and white Christmas theme around you and rejoice for your position in Christ!

Green takes you back in time to an empty grave, the sign that proved Jesus conquered death. Green stands for life and because Christ lives, in Him you inherit eternal life. Let green Christmas adornments reassure you of your life in heaven with Christ.

Don’t red, white and green silently voice out all that Christmas is about? Let these colors of Christmas refresh your memory this season. As you decorate your homes, Churches, offices, schools and anywhere else with red, white and green, may the awesome reminiscences that these colors conjure up fill your heart with thanks, joy and peace this Christmas.

Happy Christmas!!

Here are two books for further reading on the Christmas and Advent.
Buy "God Is in the Manger: Reflections on Advent and Christmas" from Amazon.com
Buy "Watch for the Light: Readings for Advent and Christmas" from Amazon.com