Church News - The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

First Presidency Christmas message

Published: Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009

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Intellectual Reserve Inc.
The First Presidency shares a message of Christmas accompanied by the painting "The Nativity" by Jon McNaughton. The Church leaders' testimony of the Savior is illustrated by the painting showing shepherds gathered about by baby Jesus lying in a manger watched over by Mary and Joseph. Animals rest nearby in the Bethlehem grotto.

Christmas is a glorious time, simple in origin and deep in meaning. It is rich in memories, charitable in spirit, and beautiful in tradition and custom. It has an attraction to which our hearts are readily drawn.

At this season of the year, we remember that our Heavenly Father gave us His Son, Jesus Christ. We also remember that His precious Son gave us His life, the Atonement, and victory over the grave.

Therefore, let us give to our Lord and Savior the gift of gratitude by living His teachings and following in His footsteps. During His mortal ministry, He "went about doing good" (Acts 10:38). As we do likewise, the Christmas spirit will fill our hearts.

— The First Presidency