Winter Wreath of Peace

During the holiday season, Madelaine Singleton and I presented a wreath that bore spiritual significance with each of its elements. (See my post: Christmas Wreath of Hope). Now, we would like to share our Winter Wreath of Peace. Our hope is that you can easily construct one for yourself and be reminded every day of God's life-giving truths even in the midst of the cold and barren winter months.

1. Start with a GRAPEVINE WREATH. All our seasonal wreaths begin with the dry intermingled grapevine circle in order to represent the ongoing condition of our human heart. We live in a fallen world that bears thorns and thistles (Genesis 3:18). We are a messy people, inside and out. Three things that contribute to this truth are: our own sin, our sometimes dire circumstances, and the weariness in our service. But the GOOD NEWS is that we have a Savior, Jesus, that chose to literally enter into our mess! Now, this grapevine wreath bears new meaning: it represents the crown of thorns that Jesus wore to the cross. There, He took on each of our personal burdens.
2. Add LIGHT PINK RIBBON. The soft pink represents the PEACE that Christ brought with Him to earth to give to His people. The Prince of Peace forgives our sins, He holds us in our sadness, and He revives us in our service. The gentleness of Christ is found as He speaks kindly to us in the wilderness (Hosea 2:14), and as He lures us with His words: Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and You will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30). The soft pink ribbon represents His gentle yoke that holds us by His strong side.
3. Add SPRIGS OF DIFFERING EUCALYPTUS. The soft sage eucalyptus is a plant that bears healing qualities. These branches symbolize our Healer who enters into our hearts, our relationships, and our daily lives. Christ Jesus brings beauty from the barren. Through God's word and powerful Spirit, we then become a display of His lovely work: Instead of the thorn bush the cypress will come up, and instead of the nettle, the myrtle will come up, and it will be a memorial to the Lord, for an everlasting sign which will not be cut off (Isaiah 55:13).
4. Finally, add BABY'S BREATH. Interestingly, when researching this snowflake-looking-flower, it represents: "innocence, reconnecting in relationships, the Holy Spirit, and everlasting love". How appropriate to apply baby's breath to our winter wreath! Jesus said, Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be afraid (John 14:27).

After assembling your wreath, hang it on your front door or over your mantle so you can be reminded of God's promises even when times seem both bleak and barren. Allow His gentle and kind Spirit to enter in both your heart and your home and be willing to share His good news with all those who admire your Winter Wreath of Peace. It is your very own memorial to the Lord. Savor the sight, and embrace its truths.