First Presidency Christmas Devotional: President Uchtdorf — 'Look for the good'
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If people look for what is wrong with the Christmas season, they will surely find it, said President Dieter F. Uchtdorf.
"We can grumble and complain, becoming cold and cynical about what we see around us," said President Uchtdorf, second counselor in the First Presidency. "Nevertheless, if we look for the good, we can see this time of year with new eyes — perhaps even the eyes of a child."
Speaking during the annual First Presidency Christmas Devotional, President Uchtdorf spoke about the Grinch, the memorable character from Dr. Seuss' classic children's story that had a heart "two sizes too small" and hated everything about Christmas.
"Through the course of the story, however, he undergoes a dramatic transformation when he learns that there is more to Christmas than decorations and gifts," explained President Uchtdorf. "Perhaps the Grinch's story is so memorable because, if we are honest, we may be able to relate to him."
President Uchtdorf told the worldwide congregation that they know what the Christmas season ought to be: "We know it should be a time of reflection on the birth of the Savior, a time of celebration and of generosity."
But, he added, sometimes the focus at Christmas time is on things that annoy and overwhelm — much like the Grinch who vowed to stop Christmas from coming at all.
"While it's true we can find materialism and anxiety in Christmas, it is also true that if we have eyes to see, we can experience the powerful message of the birth of the Son of God and feel the hope and peace He brings to the world.
"We, like the Grinch, can see Christmas through new eyes."
President Uchtdorf said his family, as tradition, has always celebrated the advent of Christmas.
"While celebrating the advent of Christmas is not part of all cultures around the globe, there is something we can learn from this widespread Christian tradition. Perhaps even this year we might carve from our busy schedules some time to study and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas — personally and as families."
President Uchtdorf said when Church members prepare for Christmas by pondering its real meaning, they prepare to experience the Christ and His message. He suggested three things they may want to study, ponder and apply this season.
First, rejoice in the
birth of the Savior.
Second, ponder His
influence in our lives today.
"Christmas is a time for remembering the Son of God and renewing our determination to take upon us His name. It is a time to reassess our lives and examine our thoughts, feelings and actions. Let this be a time of remembrance, of gratitude, and a time of forgiveness. Let it be a time to ponder the Atonement of Jesus Christ and its meaning for each of us personally. Let is especially be a time of renewal and recommitment to live by the word of God and to obey His commandments. By doing this, we honor Him far more than we ever could with lights, gifts or parties."
Third, look steadfastly
for His coming.
While Christmas is typically a time for looking back and celebrating the birth of Jesus, it should also be a time of looking to the future, President Uchtdorf said.
"Let us look forward. Let us prepare for that blessed day when He will come again."
President Uchtdorf explained that the Grinch saw the good in Christmas when he learned to look past its worldly trappings. "Our heart may not grow three sizes as the Grinch's did, but our heart will change. Our eyes will open to the miracles all around us — at Christmas time and throughout the year."
