The Magi responded faithfully to the light they were given. With limited understanding, they recognized a sign from God, undertook a costly journey, and honored the Christ child without understanding all the implications of their journey. Their example teaches that we can accomplish much by acting decisively in faith on revelation from God.
Shepherds: Keeping Watch
Why did an angel announce the Savior's birth to shepherds? They were alert and vigilant. They were willing to follow instructions immediately. And they enthusiastically shared the good news. We can follow their example of receptiveness, responsiveness, and joyful testimony.
Jesus: The Holy Child
Mormon called Jesus God's "Holy Child." When we visualize the Savior as an infant, as we do at Christmas, we remember that even though He created the earth, He was willing to live as we live and to suffer as we suffer because of His deep love for us.
Joseph: He Arose
Joseph received multiple messages from God in dreams. Each time, “he arose” and followed the instructions he received without hesitation or delay. Lehi followed the same pattern, receiving divine messages in dreams and acting promptly. We can also lead our families through uncertainty by seeking and acting upon instructions from God.
Mary: A Precious and Chosen Vessel
Mary responded to Gabriel's startling message with dignified humility. She was thoughtful in her calling. The Savior's first recorded miracle was in response to a request from her. Some of His last words were to secure her well-being. Jesus loved His mother, and we honor her for her important role in God's plan.
A Book of Mormon Nativity
To celebrate Christmas Day, I created a nativity scene using Book of Mormon scriptures.
Christ Is Born!
When Jesus was born, multiple people received independent confirmations that He was the Savior of the world. God really wanted us to know that His Son had been born, and He wanted us to listen and learn from the spiritual experiences of others.
God With Us
Isaiah prophesied that a virgin would bear a son and call him "Immanuel," which means "God with us." As Abinadi testified, God Himself came to earth. Jesus fulfilled that prophecy. We are not only walking toward God and Christ. We are walking with Them.
Highly Favoured
Gabriel told Mary she was "highly favoured." Nephi recognized that he had been "highly favored" as he looked back on his life. That sense of receiving God's enabling power can sustain us through the difficulties and discouragements of life.
“What Can I Give Him?”
The wise men gave Jesus the best they had to offer: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Our gifts may be different, but they can be just as meaningful. Christina Rosetti said she would give Him her heart. Amaleki urged us to offer Him our whole souls.