Let's Talk: Christmas Traditions
The Candy Cane Tells the Gospel Story
According to the History Channel, candy canes became part of Christmas in 1670, when the choirmaster at the Cologne Cathedral in Germany handed them out to his young vocalists to keep them occupied during a living nativity presentation. Because it was Christmas, he reportedly bent the peppermint sticks into the shape of shepherds’ crooks.
Ruth Schwenk, a graduate of Moody Bible Institute and originator of the Better Mom blog, suggests using the candy to teach children the following truths about Jesus:
The Shepherd's Staff Shape: Jesus is the Good Shepherd whose sheep hear His voice and follow Him (Psalm 23:1, John 10:11, John 10:27-30, Isaiah 40:11).
The Letter J is also shaped for Jesus: Hold the candy can upside down and talk about Jesus (Luke 1:31, Matthew 1:21).
Jesus is our Rock: The hard texture of the candy can be a reminder that Jesus is dependable and strong (Psalm 31:3).
We’re Healed by His Stripes: Red stripes on the candy cane can represent the blood of Jesus, shed for our sins (Revelation 1:5, John 3:16, Luke 22:20).
White-Purification from Sin: There are also white stripes on the candy cane, which represents the holiness and purity of Jesus, who was sinless (I John 1:7).
Sweet Fragrance of Christ: Peppermint is similar to hyssop, which was used for sacrifice and purification in the Old Testament, reminding us of the sacrifice Jesus made for us. It also reminds us of the spices brought by the Wise Men when they came to visit Jesus (Psalm 51:7, John 10:29, Matthew 2:11).
Broken For Us: When the candy cane is eaten, it is broken, which can be a reminder that when Jesus was crucified, his body was broken (I Cor. 11:24).
