Bethlehem Tree

I really like Noel Piper's idea of a Bethlehem Tree, rather than a Christmas tree. She describes it this way:

While the children are very young, one way to create visual reminders is by using a large bare branch as a Bethlehem Tree. It would be hung with ornaments and items that picture or symbolize the Bethlehem event. When children are older, the branch might become a Jesus Tree, reaching further for its symbolism to include:

• Ornaments and items that represent the nativity.
• Items that relate to Jesus' life.
• Symbols of who Jesus is, as found in Scripture's names for him, word pictures and parables.
• Reminders of Old Testament prophecy and history leading up to his birth.

Many of our Jesus Tree items are not 'ornaments.' They are made of cloth or sticks or clay, or we reinvented something as a symbol. For example, the lion is from an old zoo game; the hammer and saw were part of a toddler's tool set; the globe is a key ring. (Piper, Noel. Treasuring God in our Traditions. Wheaton, IL: Crossway. 2003. p83)

I love that the Bethlehem Tree intentionally points children, particularly young children, to the reality of Christ by involving them in its creation. The children become responsible for seeing and selecting objects that remind them of Jesus. Do children who set up Christmas trees think that way as they hang the lights?