According to the legend of the candy cane, this candy was first created over 200 years ago. At that time, in certain areas of Europe, Christians were oppressed, and no one could have their own crosses or Bibles. When Christmas came around, children didn’t get to see nativity scenes or enjoy learning about the truth of Christmas.

One man wished he could share the love of Jesus and the joy of Christmas with the rest of the world. As a candy maker, this man prayed to find a way that he could offer local children a Christmas gift that would allow him to communicate the real story of Christmas.

His prayer led to an idea – the candy cane. I hope you will take his idea and share it with others.

Shepherd’s Staff: He chose to make the candy cane in the shape of a shepherd’s staff. After all, Jesus is the shepherd to his followers and the Bible notes that the “sheep” would hear His voice and follow him (Psalm 23:1, John 10:11, John 10:27-30, Isaiah 40:11).

Letter J for Jesus: Not only was the candy cane in the shape of a staff, but when held upside down, it formed a “J,” which stood for Jesus (Luke 1:31, Matthew 1:21).

Solid as a Rock: The candy maker chose hard candy for the candy cane, which was done to remind children that Jesus was our “rock,” dependable and strong (Psalm 31:3).

White Base: The white base of the candy cane represents the purity of sinless Jesus and the cleansing we receive through His blood. (1 Peter 1:19, 1 John 1:7, Hebrews 9:12-4).

Red Stripes: Red stripes were added to the candy cane, representative of the blood Jesus shed for our sins. Through trusting in Jesus Christ, we are saved from the punishment of our sins and given eternal life. (Isaiah 53:4-7, Revelation 1:5)

Sweet Fragrance: Peppermint is the flavor traditionally used the candy cane. Peppermint is very similar to hyssop, which was used for sacrifice and purification in the Old Testament, reminding us of the sacrifice that Jesus made for us. Peppermint also reminds us of the fragrant spices brought by the Wise Men when they came to visit Jesus (Psalm 51:7, Matthew 2:9-11).

Given as a Gift: The candy cane was made to be given as a gift. This reminds us of the greatest gift ever given, the gift of God’s only Son, Jesus, as well as the gift of faith that leads us to the priceless gift of salvation. (John 3:16, Romans 6:23)