Day 3: Embracing the Spirit of Christmas with Three French Hens and Biblical Wisdom
- traceybratton
- Dec 15, 2025
- 3 min read
Christmas traditions often carry deep meanings that go beyond the festive decorations and gift exchanges. One such tradition is the "Three French Hens" from the classic carol The Twelve Days of Christmas. This symbol, when paired with biblical wisdom, offers a rich perspective on the true spirit of Christmas. Exploring this connection through scripture like 1 Corinthians 13:13 and Micah 5:2 reveals timeless lessons about faith, hope, and love that resonate during the holiday season.
The Meaning Behind Three French Hens
The "Three French Hens" in the carol represent more than just a gift. Historically, these hens symbolize the three theological virtues: faith, hope, and love. These virtues are foundational to Christian belief and are celebrated especially during Christmas, a time that marks the birth of Jesus Christ.
Faith reflects trust in God’s promises.
Hope points to the expectation of salvation and a better future.
Love embodies the selfless care for others, modeled by Christ’s life.
Understanding these virtues helps deepen the appreciation of Christmas beyond the surface level of festivities.
Insights from 1 Corinthians 13:13 on Love
One of the most famous biblical passages about love is found in 1 Corinthians 13:13:
"And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love."
This verse highlights the enduring nature of love, placing it above faith and hope. During Christmas, this message encourages us to focus on love as the core of our celebrations. Love motivates acts of kindness, generosity, and forgiveness, which are essential to the holiday spirit.
For example, families gathering to share meals or communities coming together to support those in need reflect this love in action. The verse reminds us that while faith and hope are vital, love is the force that truly transforms lives.
The Prophecy of Micah 5:2 and Its Christmas Connection
Micah 5:2 prophesies the birthplace of the Messiah:
"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel..."
This prophecy points directly to Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem, which Christmas commemorates. It reminds believers that even the humblest places and moments can hold great significance. The arrival of Jesus brought hope and love into the world, fulfilling the promise of salvation.
Reflecting on this verse during Christmas invites us to recognize the humble beginnings of Christ and the profound impact of his life. It encourages humility and gratitude, key attitudes for the season.
Applying the Lessons of Three French Hens Today
The symbolism of the three French hens and the biblical teachings offer practical ways to embrace the Christmas spirit:
Practice Faith by trusting in the goodness of others and the promise of renewal.
Cultivate Hope by looking forward to positive changes in personal and community life.
Show Love through simple acts like volunteering, giving thoughtful gifts, or reaching out to those who feel lonely.
For instance, organizing a local food drive or writing heartfelt cards to neighbors can bring these virtues to life. These actions reflect the true meaning of Christmas and create lasting joy.
Bringing It All Together
The tradition of the three French hens is a beautiful reminder of the core values that Christmas celebrates. When paired with the wisdom of scriptures like 1 Corinthians 13:13 and Micah 5:2, it offers a powerful message about faith, hope, and love. These virtues invite us to look beyond the commercial aspects of the holiday and focus on what truly matters.
This Christmas, consider how you can embody these virtues in your own life. Whether through faith in difficult times, hope for the future, or love for those around you, these gifts enrich the season and inspire meaningful connections.
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