What does the birth of Christ mean to me?
In our relief society lesson sister Eddy and I were asked to
participate in our "Christmas in Zarahemla" program. After reading a
section of scripture from the Book of Mormon regarding the time of Christ's
birth we were to respond to the question, "what does the birth of Christ
mean to you?"
What a question! There are so many ways you can answer that!
Many different things came to mind but what my mind was always drawn back to
was the word 'light'.
Jesus Christ is the light of the world. He is the light that
we are supposed to hold up. It is the light of Christ that all are given, that
tells us what is good and right and true. When He came into the world light is
what heralded him in. Light from a new star that led the wise men to him, light
so bright that it was as if there was no night between two days on the American
continent. Light around the Angels and the shepherds. Light in the hearts of
the nephite believers who were about to be put to death because of their belief
that the Messiah would come.
Is it any wonder that we put lights up everywhere at this
time of year? Lights on trees, on houses, in windows and, at my house, in milk
jugs. These lights push back the dark and coldness of winter at least a little
bit and remind us of Jesus Christ and the light and hope that he brings into
our lives.
I don't like physical darkness, I wish that the sun could
stay up all day. I really don't like spiritual darkness.
Darkness that comes from Sin and temptation, but I am so grateful for the light
that casts out spiritual darkness that comes from Jesus Christ and repentance
and partaking of the sacrament. The light that comes from Christ will always be
available. We can always have access to it. It is the light that keeps me going
even when things in my life seem dark. I know that I can come unto Christ and
receive of his light and never be in darkness.
During this Christmas, I invite you to think about your own
answer to the question, 'What does the birth of Christ mean to you?' And share
it with someone else. I know that as you do, the spirit of Christmas will enter into your heart more abundantly.
