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“Christmas means many things to many people…. some of them being spiritual! Commercialism and hype often overshadow the true meaning of the holiday. Santa and sales tax often reign supreme, eclipsing its real importance. When fame, position, and Swiss bank accounts are regularly associated with all that is truly important and of actual worth, many find it hard to appreciate the fact, (as President Hinckley has reminded us) that a child of humble birth in a stable long ago, raised a simple carpenter, without a college degree or an exalted position amongst men and devoid of significant and earthly possessions could actually be the Creator of Heaven and Earth “and all that in them are!” It is not easy for “the world” to recognize that He is the author of our salvation or that His teachings would positively influence the lives of millions in this life and countless millions in the life to come. The light and truth that He would give to us, along with His matchless example, would become the greatest powers for righteousness and peace in the entire world.
Christmas is a celebration of the wonder and importance of Christ’s life, teachings and mission! Christmas is a time to be thankful, a time for giving from the heart as He did. It is when we seem to come closest to becoming a “Zion” people. We share of our bounty, our time, our talents and our spirit. Christmas is about love and compassion and forgiveness. These three (with all due respect to water and wine, fishes and loaves, leprosy and blindness, or even raising the dead) are Christ’s greatest miracles. Through the true love of Christ (charity) and by the power of the atonement, we can all experience the joy, comfort, and freedom that come through these extraordinary gifts. Love, compassion and forgiveness refresh and heal; they embody the true spirit of Christmas; they define the Savior’s life and mission.
In a world of turmoil, anger and cruelty, “Christmas” is the answer! It is peace on earth and goodwill toward men. True peacemakers are in short supply but exactly what the Savior has prescribed for our times. There are many in today’s world that would eagerly roll in the tanks, but Christ greatly prefers those who willingly roll up their sleeves…and bring peace to the lives of mankind. Having received so much, what gifts could we give back to our Savior? Consider the following: a broken heart and a contrite spirit, our very best effort, a life of integrity, our undivided attention (free from worldly distractions); feeding his sheep, sharing His gospel. Nothing makes our Elder Brother happier than when we make positive strides in His direction. It is His work and His glory!
The Christmas season offers us a very brief glimpse of how life could be 365 days a year. Maybe that is why we all love this time of year so! Let us remember the Savior, acknowledge His infinite role in our lives and incorporate His teachings into our daily routine. Let us show our love for Him by who we are and how we live. Let us strive to give Him the place He deserves in our hearts and minds. We must, as President Hinckley has counseled us, “bring the Christ back into Christmas.”
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