Why are STOCKINGS a symbol of Christmas?
Isaiah 52:7 "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”"
For as long as I could remember every year for Christmas we would always hang these big looking socks on our wall or fireplace with the expectation that when we woke up on Christmas morning they would be filled. As a kid waking up on Christmas morning and running into the living room seeing the hung Stockings full of gifts and treats was breathtaking. Did Santa really remember me? Even if we weren't spending Christmas at home he still seemed to find us where we were, if only we hung our stocking up for him to fill.
But why stockings? Is this just another avenue in receiving presents on Christmas? What is the purpose of stockings and how do they point us to Christ during Christmas?
Stockings are a symbol of faith. The reason is because you have to believe that those stockings will be filled on Christmas morning when you decide to hang them. Children don't know where the gifts and treats will come from but they are excited for them and believe they will come.
When you hang up a stocking you're saying I believe in the reason for the season. For believers or at least for my family it is a symbol of faith because we believe Jesus is the Good News to all men and we are declaring that by participating in the season. We know that all we do is to celebrate his birthday and it's just another birthday decoration in saying Jesus I will walk this faith and I will believe that you will fill me with your goodness and mercy.
We participate in Christmas as a celebration to our Lord. Remind the children of the faith we have in Jesus by hanging those stockings and remind them that the reason they are stockings is because as these are a symbol of faith it is a symbol of our declaration of faith.
Blessed are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation! Yes, you are blessed by your faith in Jesus Christ. So remember Him in all you do. Remember that He will bless your steps and fill your life with great gifts!
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