I first encountered the book I Believe in Santa Claus, by Diane G. Adamson, while serving as a Young Women advisor. A woman in our ward gathered us in her home and shared a Christmas message, including reading aloud this book.
It felt like the missing link between a Santa Claus Christmas, filled with wonder and magic, and a baby Jesus Christmas, filled with reverence and glory.
Since that time, I have pondered on what Santa represents and where his place might be in our Christmas traditions.
The scriptures teach us that “all things denote there is a God” (Alma 30:44). If we are looking, all things can and will point us to Him.
How does Santa Claus point us to Christ?
Taking a look at Santa, what do we see?
Santa may be the most famous figure for bringing good gifts. But isn’t Christ?
“And I would exhort you, my beloved brethren, that ye remember that every good gift cometh of Christ.” (Moroni 10:18)
When we see Santa, we see someone who loves little children. Remind you of anyone?
“Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.” (Mark 10:14)
Santa has white hair and wears red. So does someone else.
“His eyes were as a flame of fire; the hair of his head was white like the pure snow; his countenance shone above the brightness of the sun; and his voice was as the sound of the rushing of great waters” (D&C 110:3).
“And the Lord shall be red in his apparel, and his garments like him that treadeth in the wine-vat.” (D&C 133:48)
Santa Claus may have been commercialized, but not beyond repair.
This Christmas, let us let Santa take his proper place as a symbol of Christmas—as a symbol of Christ. Just as the evergreen tree symbolizes everlasting life, and the candy cane reminds us of the Shepherds—the first witnesses of Christ; just as the angel or star atop the Christmas tree turns our thoughts to that glorious night in Bethlehem; Santa can also be a symbol of Christmas that directs our thoughts to Him.
This Christmas, I believe in Santa Claus—because I believe in Christ.
Featured Art | Danny Hahlbohm
Becca loves audiobooks, dark chocolate, singing, hiking, walking, going out with her husband, and raising their chickens and children. She still wants to meet her hero Sheri Dew, see flowing lava and a blue whale in person, and uplift others with her words.
