God So Loved the World

                “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).  The first gift of Christmas was a Baby, the Only Begotten Son of our Heavenly Father, who gave His Son to us that we might have everlasting life.  We celebrate Christmas because the Son of God came to earth as a Baby and gave His life that we might live for eternity with our Father and Elder Brother.

                Christmas brings a special feeling, the Spirit of Christ that spreads throughout the world and touches all, even those who may not know what it is or even desire to know.  The Spirit of Christ reminds us of the immeasurable love of our Heavenly Father and His Son.  It reminds us of our need for a Savior.  It leads us to strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ and to become more like Him.  It helps us to follow in His footsteps and become more holy. 

                On that holy night more than 2,000 years ago, shepherds on the plains of Judea witnessed a heavenly sight.  An angel appeared to the shepherds and told them of the birth of the Savior.  Suddenly “there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:13-14).

                As we celebrate Christmas, may we reflect upon the first gift of Christmas, even Jesus Christ.  May we truly discover this gift and make it a part of our lives.  May we embrace this gift and strengthen our faith in Jesus Christ.  May we share this gift as we follow in the footsteps of the Savior.  May we be like the heavenly host who sang hymns of glory to God for His special gift to all mankind.