Nephi’s Vision of the Virgin Mary (fragment), by Judith A. Mehr
The birth of Jesus Christ is a major theme in the Book of Mormon. When Nephi wanted to understand his father’s dream, an angel showed him “a virgin, bearing a child in her arms” (1 Nephi 11:20), which helped him experience the love of God. The angel who appeared to King Benjamin prophesied that “the Lord Omnipotent” would come to earth, “and he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary” (Mosiah 3:8). Alma called Mary “a precious and chosen vessel,” and said that she would “be overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, yea, even the Son of God” (Alma 7:10). Samuel the Lamanite prophesied that at the time of the Savior’s birth, the Nephites and Lamanites would experience a night filled with light. He also said that a new star would appear to mark the Savior’s birth. (See Helaman 14:1-8.) The Book of Mormon also describes the fulfillment of this prophecy, five years later. (See 3 Nephi 1:11-21.)
As we celebrate the Savior’s birth this week, let’s remember the importance of this event to Book of Mormon prophets. Let’s ponder how visualizing Jesus as a “Holy Child” (Moroni 8:3) helps us better understand His life, mission, and character. Let’s consider the irony of “God himself” (Mosiah 15:1) coming to earth and “[dwelling] in a tabernacle of clay” (Mosiah 3:5). Let’s allow our recollection of His birth to fill us with wonder and bring us closer to Him. (See Helaman 14:7, 3 Nephi 1:26.)
Here are some lessons I’ve learned as I’ve studied the Book of Mormon at Christmastime:
New Testament Connections
- Both Mary and Nephi benefitted from knowing that they were “highly favored” of the Lord.
- Nephi quoted Isaiah’s prophecy that the child of the virgin would be named “Immanuel,” which means “God with us.”
- Mary pondered the visit of the shepherds in her heart, while the shepherds proclaimed what they had seen. We can follow their examples of quiet contemplation and sharing the gospel.
- Jesus came not just to save the world, but to save you personally. In another passage quoted by Nephi, Isaiah says, “unto us a child is born.” An angel said the same thing to the shepherds on the night Jesus was born: “Unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ, the Lord.”
Old Testament Foundations
- The prophet Balaam foretold that a “Star” would come “out of Jacob.” This may have been the prophecy which inspired the wise men to search for Jesus. Samuel the Lamanite also prophesied, “There shall a new star arise, such an one as ye never have beheld.”
- Micah prophesied that Bethlehem, which was previously called “Ephrath” (Fruitful), would be the birthplace of the Messiah. Ephrath was near the place where Rachel died. The sorrows we experience can lead us to incomprehensible joy.
- Jeremiah prophesied that Rachel would weep for her children and refuse to be comforted. This prophecy was partially fulfilled when Herod murdered innocent children in Bethlehem. But he also said, “There is hope in thine end.” Parents continue to pray for their children, just as Alma’s father did for him.
People in the Christmas Story
- Mary was willing to accept assignments from God, and she was thoughtful as she fulfilled those assignments
- Shepherds nourish, gather, and protect their sheep.
- Wise Men notice things that other people miss. They have good judgment and know how to identify good sources of truth. They also act upon the knowledge they have received.
- Anna, the Prophetess spent time in the temple and learned how to hear the voice of God.
- Simeon recognized that he was still on the earth for a reason, and looked for the experience which God wanted him to have before his death.
- Jesus Christ identified Himself as the Son of God. Book of Mormon prophets emphasize the irony of the Creator of the Universe submitting His will to the will of His Father.
Symbols of Christmas
- The Star – Just as a star guided the wise men to Bethlehem, and just as a new star indicated to people on the American continent that the Savior had been born, we can help light the world this Christmas season.
- The Tree - A tree covered with lights can remind us of the tree in Lehi’s dream, which represents the love of God.
- The Inn – As we reflect on the lodging place that had no room for Mary and Joseph, we can resolve to make all feel welcome, particularly those who might be marginalized or in need of additional support.
- Gifts – James taught, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights.” And Moroni wanted us to “remember that every good gift cometh of Christ.” As we give and receive gifts this season, we can remember the supernal gifts God has given us, and we can open our hearts to receive them.
Recommended Posts
- How Does the Birth of Jesus Christ Help Us Understand the Love of God?
- Why Is Light an Appropriate Symbol for the Birth of Christ?
- What Is the Significance of the Name “Jesus?”
Blog Posts: December 24-26
Good Tidings of Great Joy
Isaiah urged the people of God to enthusiastically share the “good tidings” of the gospel. The angel who appeared to the shepherds also referred to his message as “good tidings of great joy.” We can strengthen others’ faith by sharing truths joyfully.
A Book of Mormon Nativity
To celebrate Christmas Day, I created a nativity scene using Book of Mormon scriptures.
On the Day After Christmas
How has Christmas changed you this year, and how durable is that change? The Nephites quickly forgot the signs they had seen. In contrast, Mary pondered her experiences in her heart. Take time to ponder what you’ve felt this Christmas season.
Leave a Reply