The candy cane represents one of the

oldest symbols of Christmas

~ the shepherd's crook ~

The shepherds

were among the first to experience that first Christmas.

The colors of the candy cane have special meaning, too.

The wide red stripe represents the sacrifice of Christ.

"For by his stripes we are healed."

The narrow red stripes represent our own sacrifices.

The white stripe is a symbol of purity.

The peppermint flavor represents an Old Testament

medicinal herb used for cleansing.

As you eat your candy cane you might want to break it,

as Christ's body was broken for you,

and share it with a friend, thus sharing in the sweetness

of the true meaning of Christmas.

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