I was lucky to sit in at a luncheon where Elder Bednar spoke the other day. He instructed us to pull out some paper and a pen, and with our notes teach our families about the true meaning of Christmas.

Tree

He first points out a regular Christmas tree. When you gaze upon your Christmas tree, remember the Tree of Life. What does the Tree of Life symbolize?  (1 Ne 11:25) When Lehi crosses over to the tree, what is the first thing he desires? (1 Ne 8:12)

When Lehi partakes of the fruit he describes it as “most sweet” and “white, to exceed all the whiteness that I had ever seen” (1 Ne 8:11) What does the fruit represent? The fruit is described as most white, most sweet, makes one happy, fills us with joy, precious above all, most joyous, the love of God, (1 Ne 8 & 11, Alma 5:34 & 62)  Alma 32 teaches us how to grow our own tree, which through faith, diligence, and patience, our own fruit will fill us with the blessings of the Atonement (Alma 32: 42).

Lights

Then he pointed out the Christmas lights. Imagine that you are 10 years old when you hear Samuel the Lamanite foretell the coming of the Son of God. (Helaman 14:2) In verses 3 and 4, Samuel tells them when Jesus comes, there will be great lights in heaven. No darkness will come and it “shall appear unto man as if it was day – one day and a night and a day as if it were one day.” In other words, LIGHT.

Five years have gone by – you are now 15 years old – It is announced in town that believers in Samuel’s prophecy will be killed the next morning. If, however, you are willing to deny any of this nonsense, you will be safe. (3 Ne 1:9) Your father gathers the family together for Family Home Evening to discuss, as a family, what you will do.  Are you willing to deny what you believe, or hold to your faith and be put to death? As we all know, the sign came the very next morning. The sign of the light saves the believers. (3 Ne 1:13) What decision did you make?

Thunderings, earthquakes and complete darkness cover the earth. (3 Ne 11) You are now 48 years old and Samuel’s prophecies have come to a profound end. Through the terrible darkness, a voice whispers to be heard. Finally, the voice is heard to say, “I am the light and the life of the world.” He brings with Him LIGHT.

Shepherds

The shepherds are no ordinary shepherds. Their flock, no ordinary flock.  According to Bruce R. Mc Conkie, the flock is “destined for sacrifice in the temple.” These shepherds are watching the most important flock in the region. It is no surprise that they will be the ones to hear the angels sing.

So, are you ready for Christmas?
Are you ready for CHRISTmas?

What will be our gift to the Christ Child?
A Conversion – firm and steadfast
A Conviction – we believe above all else
A Desire and Plan to better know Christ and His Atoning Sacrifice

Every time you look upon a Christmas tree, lights, and shepherds, may you think of the symbols that bear witness of the Son of God, His birth, His life, and our destiny.

He concluded by declaring his Witness of the Son of God, the Babe in Bethlehem, the Savior, and King of the World.