My husband practices Dermatology, a field that most medical professionals are weak in and are weary of.

Why? Because it’s hard! So many rashes look alike.

But my favorite rash of all time presents mostly in young women, on their back, and in a Christmas tree pattern. Yep, you heard me. This rash is spread out in the shape of a Christmas tree!

Most of the time, it doesn’t cause any problems. It doesn’t even itch in most people. But because it spreads all over their back, people get concerned.

It’s called Pityriasis Rosea.

Why do I love it so much? Because it’s shaped like a Christmas tree. Easy to spot, easy to treat, and it’s not harmful to most patients.

Easy and fun. That doesn’t happen to much in medicine.

There’s a lot of criticism surrounding Christians about how we celebrate Christmas, starting with the tree. But if you look closely, everything…everything is a symbol of our Christian faith.

1. Christmas Tree: A symbol of the tree of good and evil, starting the need for Jesus.

2. Presents: Even the three wise men brought gifts to Jesus at his birth. And…we are celebrating his birthday.

3. Santa Claus: A remembrance of Bishop Nicholas, a martyr for the Christian faith.

4. Star on the tree: The star of Bethlehem that led the wise men to Jesus.

There are numerous examples. I just named a few. And there aren’t too many opportunities where a medical condition is a reminder of Christmas.

My prayer for you this Christmas is to slow down and absorb your surroundings. Inhale the smells, listen to the sounds, and look at all of the symbolism pointing you back to the birth of a baby boy. The birth of a savior. The birth of Jesus Christ. And with that reminder, may you find peace and joy this Christmas season.

Merry Christmas!