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| The Grinch! |
BUT what is it that makes this season so special? People tend to get caught up in the commercialism and hype of the season and they soon lose sight of the "reason for the season". Sure, we give and receive gifts around Christmastime. We also listen to inspiring music, watch good family-oriented movies, and have good food! But the special spirit that is felt is not a product of these things! The Grinch is right when he said that it must mean a little bit more.
It is the Spirit of Christ. Jesus Christ was born into the world so that He could live perfectly while setting up His Church, suffer our individual pains, sins, and infirmities to save us from spiritual death, and then die and be resurrected to save us from physical death. This is called the Atonement and it is the ultimate sign of His love.
At Christmastime we recognize His birth to commemorate all that He did for us. Without the Atonement His birth would have been just another baby coming into the world. But he fulfilled prophecies in the way that He lived and He made it possible for us to return to Him. This year, let us celebrate the birth and life of our only true King, Jesus Christ.
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| Birth of Christ by Carl Heinrich Bloch |
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the church that I represent as a full-time missionary, has produced and released Bible Videos that depict scenes directly from the bible. These videos are simply beautiful and they are completely true to the truth of the bible. Below I have posted a few of these videos because they teach about the birth of Christ in a way that that has touched me. As a full-time missionary I am away from my family and am unable to participate in some of the traditions that I would normally take part in if I was at home (like watching The Grinch!). At times, it is hard to even realize that it's almost Christmas. I am so grateful for these videos because they have helped me to recognize and capture the true spirit of Christmas. I know that they will do the same for you.
Don't you feel the Spirit of Christmas? These videos bring the scriptures to life. Let us let them live in us. Share the Spirit of Christmas with your friends, neighbors, families, and strangers. You will be happier and you will be helping someone else too. That is the spirit of Christmas. I know that my Savior lives and I know that He loves you and me. Merry Christmas!
3 comments:
I love this, Matt. So simple. Just yesterday I was listening to a Christmas CD in the car (like I've been doing every time I drive somewhere this month), and was singing along with Jessica Simpson and Isabel. Even though I've always knows that "Silent Night" is a religious and beautiful song, something struck me and I couldn't even continue. The birth of Jesus Christ is everything to us. It was so precious and perfect, and I love that we have a day (though is a single day really enough???) set aside to celerate Him.
I know exactly what you mean Laurel! I've been listening to amazing Christmas songs all month and I have been touched by so many. My favorites have been "O Holy Night" by He is We and "Silent Night" by Taylor Swift. There is something special about them and it is the fact that they are singing about our Savior and this blessed occasion. Ahhhh I love Christmas!
I agree with your thoughts, Matt. As years gone by, I also noticed that the next generation have been lost and was blinded of what's the real meaning of Christmas. I hope everybody can take time and read your posts. At present, most adults have never taught the little ones the true meaning of Christmas. Most of us would think of Santa, piles of gifts and surprises, but the real question is: Are we living the true essence of Christmas?
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