Many people do not realize that those sugary red and white stripes known as candy canes are more than just peppermint goodness. Candy canes are a symbol of the true meaning of Christmas. So as you enjoy this sweet treat, read below to learn the story behind it!
A candy maker in Indiana wanted to make something that would remind people of the true meaning of Christmas; so he created the candy cane to incorporate several symbols of the birth, ministry, and death of Jesus Christ. He began with a stick of pure white, hard candy. White to symbolize the Virgin Birth and the sinless nature of Jesus, and its solidness to symbolize the Rock, the foundation of the Church, and the firmness of the promises of God.
The candy maker then shaped his cane into the form of a “J” to represent the precious name of Jesus, who came to the earth as man’s Savior. And if you turn it upside down, it represents the staff of the Good Shepherd with which He reaches down to rescue the lambs who have gone astray.
Thinking that the candy was somewhat plain, the candy maker stained it with red stripes. Three small stripes to show the scourging Jesus received, and one large stripe for the blood shed by Christ on the cross so that we could have eternal life.
While some say there is no historical evidence to prove this story, I say that, regardless of its origins, it is a beautiful and powerful reflection of the true meaning of Christmas.
