History teaches that Martin Luther, the 16th century church reformer, was walking home one evening and saw the new fallen snow upon the limbs of the trees and the light of the moon sparkling upon the limbs of the new fallen snow.

Wanting his children to see this sight, he cut a small tree, brought it to his home, put lighted candles on it and allowed his family to see for a few minutes the symbolism of the fir tree. The branches of the tree pointed heavenward, its evergreen nature spoke of eternity and the symbol of the light depicted Christ as the light of the world.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the City of Rockingham for the beautiful decorations that are on display. It has always been a Christmas tradition for the family to ride around town and view the decorations. Although, the children are grown now, it was a joy to watch the faces of the grandchildren as they looked upon the decorations. This Christmas season may each and every one celebrate as the wise men did some two thousand years ago and Luther on that cold winter’s night in Germany. The most precious gift of all a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. Merry Christmas!

Ken Akins

Rockingham