Many Mighty Miracles

Daily Thought -- May 22, 2011

2011-05-22T09:43:00.001-06:00

“In these perilous times it is not enough for our youth to merely know. They must do. Wholehearted participation in ordinances, quorums and auxiliaries, inspired programs, and fortifying activities helps youth put on the whole armor of God.”

-Robert D. Hales “Our Duty to God: The Mission of Parents and Leaders to the Rising Generation,” Ensign, May 2010, 97

Daily Thought -- May 21, 2011

2011-05-21T09:42:00.000-06:00

"Coming unto Christ and being perfected in Him is, I believe, the ultimate purpose of all remembering (see Moroni 10:32 33). Therefore, I pray that God will bless us always to remember, especially His perfect Son, and perish not."

-Marlin K. Jensen "Remember and Perish Not," Ensign, May 2007, 38

Daily Thought -- May 20, 2011

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"Learning to endure times of disappointment, suffering, and sorrow is part of our on-the-job training. These experiences, while often difficult to bear at the time, are precisely the kinds of experiences that stretch our understanding, build our character, and increase our compassion for others."

-Joseph B. Wirthlin "Come What May, and Love It, Ensign", Nov. 2008, 27

Daily Thought -- May 19, 2011

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"President Gordon B. Hinckley stated: 'I have not spoken face to face with all of the prophets of this dispensation. I was not acquainted with the Prophet Joseph Smith, nor did I ever hear him speak. [However,] my grandfather, who as a young man lived in Nauvoo, did hear him and testified of his divine calling as a great prophet of this dispensation' ("Believe His Prophets," Ensign, May 1992, 50).

"President Hinckley bore witness of the First Vision, when young Joseph Smith went to pray in a grove and received his answer through divine revelation from both the Father and the Son.

"President Hinckley's passion with the building of temples and the sacred work performed therein will be a polar star for each of us to follow."

-F. Michael Watson "His Servants, the Prophets," Ensign, May 2009, 108

Daily Thought -- May 18, 2011

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"The crowning temple ordinance is available only to a man and a woman when they are sealed together, forming an eternal family unit. It is by virtue of this and all other priesthood ordinances that the families of the earth shall be blessed (see Abraham 2:11). This sealing ordinance is so central to the Lord's purposes that He has promised to the faithful who are not sealed in this life through no fault of their own this blessing in the life to come. No other doctrine in all of religion better confirms God's commensurate love for both His sons and His daughters."

-Craig A. Cardon "Moving Closer to Him," Ensign, Nov. 2006, 94-95

Daily Thought -- May 17, 2011

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There are several things we can do to develop a deep conversion and learn how to receive divine inspiration. First, we must have a desire. Alma said, ‘For I know that he granteth unto men according to their desire, whether it be unto death or unto life . . . according to their wills’ (Alma 29:4).”

-Allan F. Packer “Finding Strength in Challenging Times!” Ensign, May 2009, 17

Daily Thought -- May 16, 2011

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"In 1936, at the height of the Great Depression in the United States, when people were struggling to make ends meet, Elder John A. Widtsoe admonished the Saints to pay their tithing because of the spiritual blessings they would receive. He said: 'Obedience to the law of tithing . . . brings a deep, inward joy . . . that can be won in no other way. . . . The principles of truth become clearer. . . . Prayer becomes easier. . . . The spiritual sense is sharpened [and] . . . man becomes more like his Father in Heaven' ("Tithing Testimonies of Our Leaders," Deseret News, May 16, 1936, Church Section, 5)."

-Sheldon F. Child "The Best Investment," Ensign, May 2008, 80-81

Daily Thought -- May 15, 2011

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"I express special gratitude to the Lord Jesus Christ. I am thankful for His loving-kindness and for His open invitation to come unto Him (see Matthew 11:28-30). I marvel at His matchless power to heal. I testify of Jesus Christ as the Master Healer. It is but one of many attributes that characterize His incomparable life."

-Russell M. Nelson "Jesus Christ—the Master Healer," Ensign, Nov. 2005,

Daily Thought -- May 14, 2011

2011-05-14T10:28:00.001-06:00

"First-generation members occupy a special and important place in the Church and their families. Did you know that first-generation members constitute more than half of the membership of the Church? Perhaps not since the early days of the Church has the first generation constituted such a large percentage of total Church membership as it does today. Your faith and testimonies are a great strength and blessing to others. Through you, we gain a deeper understanding of gospel principles and our testimonies are strengthened.

"You add great strength to the Church when you use your testimony, talents, abilities, and energy to build the kingdom in your wards and branches. You are great examples of sharing the gospel, serving missions, sending children on missions, and welcoming new members. You reach out in kindness to those around you, lifting and blessing them through inspired service. So much of what is done in the Church today could not be done without your efforts."

-Paul B. Pieper "The First Generation," Ensign, Nov. 2006, 11-12

Daily Thought -- May 13, 2011

2011-05-13T10:23:00.000-06:00

"In order to have joy, you need to understand that, as a child of your Heavenly Father, you inherited divine traits and spiritual needs--and just like a fish needs water, you need the gospel and the companionship of the Holy Ghost to be truly, deeply happy. Because you are the offspring of God (see Acts 17:28), it is incompatible with your eternal nature to do wrong and feel right. It cannot be done. It is part of your spiritual DNA, as it were, that peace, joy, and happiness will be yours only to the degree you live the gospel."

-Marcus B. Nash "The Great Plan of Happiness," Ensign, Nov. 2006, 49

Daily Thought -- May 12, 2011

2011-05-12T10:20:00.002-06:00

“The ability to qualify for, receive, and act on personal revelation is the single most important skill that can be acquired in this life.”

-Julie B. Beck “And upon the Handmaids in Those Days Will I Pour Out My Spirit,” Ensign, May 2010, 11

Daily Thought -- May 11, 2011

2011-05-11T09:56:00.000-06:00

"If there is one character more than another in the Book of Mormon that I have admired and whose example I have felt to emulate, that character has been Nephi of old; never discouraged, never disheartened, always ready, always determined to labor to the best of his ability for the accomplishment of the purposes of God."

-Heber J Grant Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Heber J. Grant [2002], 37

Daily Thought -- May 10, 2011

2011-05-10T09:55:00.001-06:00

"A few weeks ago, my father . . . passed away, and now more than ever I feel thankfulness to my God for the richness and beauty of His doctrine.

"Because family life can continue beyond the thresholds of death. Because the royal priesthood has been restored upon the earth. And because the Spirit has spoken to my spirit, giving me a testimony that my Savior Jesus Christ lives and that through His intercession I shall be able, in accordance to my faithfulness, to live with Him. For these reasons and others still, I am a member of the only true Church upon the face of the earth, and I shall be eternally grateful for this."

-Enrique R. Falabella "Why Are We Members of the Only True Church?" Ensign, Nov. 2007,

Daily Thought -- May 9, 2011

2011-05-09T09:53:00.000-06:00

"Regular reading of and talking about the Book of Mormon invite the power to resist temptation and to produce feelings of love within our families. And discussions about the doctrines and principles in the Book of Mormon provide opportunities for parents to observe their children, to listen to them, to learn from them, and to teach them."

-David A. Bednar "Watching with All Perserverance," Ensign, May 2010, 41

Mother's Day Thoughts -- May 8, 2011

2011-05-08T09:55:00.000-06:00

"I am impressed by countless mothers who have learned how important it is to focus on the things that can only be done in a particular season of life. If a child lives with parents for 18 or 19 years, that span is only one-fourth of a parent's life. And the most formative time of all, the early years in a child's life, represents less than one-tenth of a parent's normal life. It is crucial to focus on our children for the short time we have them with us and to seek, with the help of the Lord, to teach them all we can before they leave our homes. This eternally important work falls to mothers and fathers as equal partners. I am grateful that today many fathers are more involved in the lives of their children. But I believe that the instincts and the intense nurturing involvement of mothers with their children will always be a major key to their well-being. In the words of the proclamation on the family, 'Mothers are primarily responsible for the nurture of their children' (The Family: A Proclamation to the World," Ensign, Nov. 1995, 102)."

-M. Russell Ballard "Daughters of God," Ensign, May 2008, 108-109

"My mother assured me that if I stayed on the road of truth, even when it seemed hot and dusty, even when there were distractions, the end would be better than the beginning. I will be eternally grateful that Mother told me."

-Bradley D. Foster "Mother Told Me," Ensign, May 2010, 100

"There are some among us who are unhappy with their lives because they have wanted to achieve a measure of greatness in this life but now feel they have failed in some fundamental way. . . .
"[Joseph F. Smith wrote:] 'Those things which we call extraordinary, remarkable, or unusual may make history, but they do not make real life.
" 'After all, to do well those things which God ordained to be the common lot of all mankind, is the truest greatness. To be a successful father or a successful mother is greater than to be a successful general or a successful statesman.' (Juvenile Instructor, 15 Dec. 1905, p. 752.) . .
"True greatness is never a result of a chance occurrence or a one-time effort or achievement. It requires the development of character. It requires a multitude of correct decisions for the everyday choices between good and evil."

-Howard W. Hunter "True Greatness," Ensign, May 1982, 19-20

"We are living in a great season for all women in the Church. Sisters, you are an essential part of our Heavenly Father's plan for eternal happiness; you are endowed with a divine birthright. You are the real builders of nations wherever you live, because strong homes of love and peace will bring security to any nation."

-Dieter F. Uchtdorf "The Influence of Righteous Women," Ensign, Sept. 2009, 7–8

"What more can a husband do to support his wife, the mother of their children? First, show extra appreciation and give more validation for what your wife does every day. Notice things and say thank you—often. Schedule some evenings together, just the two of you.
"Second, have a regular time to talk with your wife about each child's needs and what you can do to help.
"Third, give your wife a 'day away' now and then. Just take over the household and give your wife a break from her daily responsibilities. Taking over for a while will greatly enhance your appreciation of what your wife does. . . .
"Fourth, come home from work and take an active role with your family. Don't put work, friends, or sports ahead of listening to, playing with, and teaching your children."

-M. Russell Ballard "Daughters of God," Ensign, May 2008, 110

Daily Thought -- May 7, 2011

2011-05-07T11:05:00.000-06:00

“What does it mean to seek the face of the Savior? Surely it means more than just recognizing His picture. Christ’s invitation to seek Him is an invitation to know who He is, what He has done for us, and what He has asked us to do. Coming to Christ, and eventually seeing His face, comes only as we draw close to Him through our faith and our actions. It comes through a lifetime of effort.”

-Cheryl C. Lant “That Our Children Might See the Face of the Savior,” Ensign, May 2010, 81

Daily Thought -- May 6, 2011

2011-05-06T11:03:00.000-06:00

"Many of you are single. You are students; you are working; you are new to Relief Society. Some of you have been longtime members. . . . Each of you is valued and needed. Each of you brings love, energy, perspective, and testimony to the work. Your efforts to live close to the Spirit bless us all because you have learned to rely on the Spirit for strength and direction."

-Bonnie D. Parkin "Sweet Moments," Ensign, Nov. 2005, 107

Daily Thought -- May 5, 2011

2011-05-05T11:01:00.001-06:00

"When we came into this world, we brought with us from our heavenly home this God-given gift and privilege which we call our agency. It gives us the right and power to make decisions and to choose. Agency is an eternal law. President Brigham Young, speaking of our agency, taught: 'This is a law which has always existed from all eternity, and will continue to exist throughout all the eternities to come. Every intelligent being must have the power of choice' (Deseret News, Oct. 10, 1866, 355)."

-Wolfgang H. Paul "The Gift of Agency," Ensign, May 2006, 34-35

Daily Thought -- May 4, 2011

2011-05-04T10:59:00.001-06:00

“In many ways the gospel of Jesus Christ is like a 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle. When Joseph Smith came on the scene, perhaps 100 pieces were in place. Then Joseph Smith came along and put many of the other 900 pieces in place so that people could say, ‘Oh, now I understand where I came from, why I am here, and where I am going.’ As for Joseph Smith’s role in the Restoration, the Lord defined it clearly: ‘This generation shall have my word through you’ (D&C 5:10).”

-Tad R. Callister “Joseph Smith—Prophet of the Restoration,” Ensign, Nov. 2009, 37

Daily Thought -- May 3, 2011

2011-05-03T10:56:00.001-06:00

"Is it possible to reclaim a life that through reckless abandon has become so strewn with garbage that it appears that the person is unforgivable? Or what about the one who is making an honest effort but has fallen back into sin so many times that he feels that there is no possible way to break the seemingly endless pattern? Or what about the person who has changed his life but just can't forgive himself? . . .

"The Atonement of Jesus Christ is available to each of us. His Atonement is infinite. It applies to everyone, even you. It can clean, reclaim, and sanctify even you. That is what infinite means--total, complete, all, forever."

-Shayne M. Bowen "The Atonement Can Clean, Reclaim, and Sanctify Our Lives," Ensign, Nov. 2006, 33-34

Daily Thought -- May 2, 2011

2011-05-02T10:54:00.000-06:00

"As a young boy I discovered amazing power in a small flashlight. . . . To observe the physical properties of light can be exciting, but discovering the properties of spiritual light and truth is even more awe inspiring and essential.

"We live in marvelous times, yet also an hour when peace has been taken from the earth (see D&C 1:35). For us to prosper in these times, spiritual light must burn within us. How do we obtain this spiritual light and ensure that the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ fill our souls? I would like to suggest three ways: (1) learn true doctrine, (2) gain pure testimony, and (3) live the gospel courageously."

-Robert R. Steuer "The Power of Light and Truth," Ensign, May 2008, 99

Daily Thought -- May 1, 2011

2011-05-01T10:54:00.000-06:00

"Our Father in Heaven wants each of us to enjoy peace and happiness in mortal life. Our Master, Jesus Christ, and His prophets have taught how to have that peace and happiness, even in a world that is ever more challenging, with increasing conflict and an intense concentration of alluring temptations."

-Richard G Scott "The Atonement Can Secure Your Peace and Happiness," Ensign, Nov. 2006, 40

Daily Thought -- April 21, 2011

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“Brothers and sisters, one of the great consolations of this Easter season is that because Jesus walked such a long, lonely path utterly alone, we do not have to do so. His solitary journey brought great company for our little version of that path—the merciful care of our Father in Heaven, the unfailing companionship of this Beloved Son, the consummate gift of the Holy Ghost, angels in heaven, family members on both sides of the veil, prophets and apostles, teachers, leaders, friends. All of these and more have been given as companions for our mortal journey because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ and the Restoration of His gospel. Trumpeted from the summit of Calvary is the truth that we will never be left alone nor unaided, even if sometimes we may feel that we are. Truly the Redeemer of us all said, ‘I will not leave you comfortless. [My Father and] I will come to you [and abide with you].’ ”

-Jeffrey R Holland “None Were with Him,” Ensign, May 2009, 88

Daily Thought -- April 19, 2011

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“My purpose today is to assure you that our Heavenly Father and the Savior live and that They love all humanity. The very opportunity for us to face adversity and affliction is part of the evidence of Their infinite love. God gave us the gift of living in mortality so that we could be prepared to receive the greatest of all the gifts of God, which is eternal life. Then our spirits will be changed. We will become able to want what God wants, to think as He thinks, and thus be prepared for the trust of an endless posterity to teach and to lead through tests to be raised up to qualify to live forever in eternal life.

-Henry B Eyring “Adversity,” Ensign, May 2009, 23–24

Daily Thought -- April 18, 2001

2011-04-18T08:26:00.002-06:00

"Parents teach and families learn by doing things together. . . .

"It is a striking fact that the family home evening is the ideal time to accomplish almost every type of family togetherness. It is the ideal place for the family to pray together, learn together, counsel together, play together, and even work together. Most of us recognize this, but I wonder how many of us are really using the family home evening to its full potential."

-Dallin H Oaks, "Parental Leadership in the Family," Ensign, June 1985, 10-1

Daily Thought -- April 17, 2011

2011-04-17T14:02:00.001-06:00

“Simply stated, testimony--real testimony, born of the Spirit and confirmed by the Holy Ghost--changes lives. It changes how you think and what you do. It changes what you say. It affects every priority you set and every choice you make. To have a real and abiding testimony of the gospel of Jesus Christ is to be ‘spiritually . . . born of God,’ to ‘[receive] his image in your countenances,’ and to experience a ‘mighty change in your hearts’ (Alma 5:14).”

-M. Russell Ballard “Pure Testimony,” Ensign, Nov. 2004, 40

Daily Thought -- April 16, 2011

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"In this age of one hour dry cleaning and one minute fast food franchises, it may at times seem to us as though a loving Heavenly Father has misplaced our precious promises or He has put them on hold or filed them under the wrong name. . . .

"When heaven's promises sometimes seem afar off, I pray that each of us will embrace these exceeding great and precious promises and never let go. . . . God will remember you."

-Spencer J. Condie "Claim the Exceeding Great and Precious Promises," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 18

Daily Thought -- April 6, 2011

2011-04-06T12:42:00.000-06:00

"As we consider various choices, we should remember that it is not enough that something is good. Other choices are better, and still others are best. Even though a particular choice is more costly, its far greater value may make it the best choice of all.

"Consider how we use our time in the choices we make in viewing television, playing video games, surfing the Internet, or reading books or magazines. Of course it is good to view wholesome entertainment or to obtain interesting information. But not everything of that sort is worth the portion of our life we give to obtain it. Some things are better, and others are best. When the Lord told us to seek learning, He said, 'Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom' (D&C 88:118)."

-Elder Dallin H Oaks, "Good, Better, Best," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 104-105

Daily Thought -- March 5, 2011

2011-03-05T10:09:00.000-07:00

"After President Wilford Woodruff joined the Church he desired to serve a mission.

" 'I was but a Teacher,' he wrote, 'and it is not a Teacher's office to go abroad and preach. I dared not tell any of the authorities of the Church that I wanted to preach, lest they might think I was seeking for an office.' (Leaves from My Journal, Salt Lake City: Juvenile Instructor Office, 1882, p. 8.)

"He prayed to the Lord, and without disclosing his desire to any others, he was ordained . . . and sent on a mission. They went to the Arkansas Territory.

"He and his companion struggled through a hundred miles of alligator-infested swamps, wet, muddy, and tired. Brother Woodruff developed a sharp pain in his knee and could go no further. His companion left him sitting on a log and went home. Brother Woodruff knelt down in the mud and prayed for help. He was healed and continued his mission."
Boyd K Packer, "The Aaronic Priesthood," Ensign, Nov. 1981, 30

Daily Thought -- March 4, 2011

2011-03-03T09:07:00.000-07:00

“The best way to make a permanent change for good is to make Jesus Christ your model and His teachings your guide for life.”

Richard G Scott “He Lives! All Glory to His Name!” Ensign, May 2010, 78

Daily Thought -- March 3, 2011

2011-03-03T07:47:00.000-07:00

"It is not enough to know that God lives, that Jesus Christ is our Savior, and that the gospel is true. We must take the high road by acting upon that knowledge."

-Dallin H Oaks, "Be Not Deceived," Ensign, Nov. 2004, 46

Daily Thought -- March 2, 2011

2011-03-02T06:04:00.006-07:00

"When we invite the Holy Ghost to fill our minds with light and knowledge, He 'quickens' us, that is to say, enlightens and enlivens the inner man or woman. As a result we notice a measurable difference in our soul. We feel strengthened, filled with peace and joy. We possess spiritual energy and enthusiasm, both of which enhance our natural abilities. We can accomplish more than we otherwise could do on our own. We yearn to become a holier person."

- Keith K. Hilbig "Quench Not the Spirit Which Quickens the Inner Man," Ensign, Nov. 2007, 38

Daily Thought -- March 1, 2011

2011-03-01T06:00:00.003-07:00

"The Church began its first decade with only a few members. Despite intense opposition, 597 missionaries were called during the 1830s, and over 15,000 converts were baptized into the Church. The United States, Canada, and Great Britain were opened to the preaching of the gospel.

"There were many converts during the 1840s while persecutions continued to rage against the Church and especially against the Prophet Joseph. In the midst of these difficulties and despite the great challenges of travel, the restored gospel of Jesus Christ continued to cover more of the earth through the faithful service of 1,454 missionaries called during the 1840s, and Church membership grew to more than 48,000. On June 27, 1844, the persecution of Joseph Smith culminated when he and his brother Hyrum were killed by a mob in the Carthage Jail.

"Soon after the Martyrdom and in fulfillment of Joseph's vision, Brigham Young and the Church began preparations to move to the Rocky Mountains. Hardship, affliction, death, and apostasy were ever present. Still, the work moved forward. In the 1850s some 705 missionaries were called to serve in areas including Scandinavia, France, Italy, Switzerland, and Hawaii. Missionary work also began in such diverse parts of the world as India, Hong Kong, Thailand, Burma, South Africa, and the West Indies."

-M Russell Ballard, "The Truth of God Shall Go Forth," Ensign, Nov. 2008, 81

Charity: An Example of the Believers

2011-02-03T15:50:00.004-07:00

A group of young women reach out in kindness and charity to a student with a disability, fulfilling her dream and giving everyone something to cheer about.

Prayer

2011-02-03T07:48:00.004-07:00

Learn from a humble woman's example how the power of prayer can work miracles in our lives.

Trials: Look to the Light

2011-02-02T15:30:00.004-07:00

No matter the trials with which we are beset, we can look to the light of Jesus Christ. Jeffrey R. Holland, a disciple of Jesus Christ, shares this message of hope.

What Shall We Give?

2011-02-02T07:28:00.002-07:00

In a season known for giving and getting, President Thomas S. Monson and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir remind us of the true gifts and meaning of Christmas.

Christmas Spirit

2011-02-01T15:37:00.004-07:00

A young girl with true Christmas spirit quietly teaches her preoccupied family the true meaning of Christmas.

In Sickness and Health

2011-02-01T07:34:00.003-07:00

See how faith and love can remain strong through the challenges and the changing seasons of our lives.

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2011-01-31T15:52:00.000-07:00

Thanksgiving Message: Random people on the streets of New York City share a variety of grateful responses to one simple question: What are you thankful for? To find more ways to discover how to feel and share Gratitude with others, please visit: http://lds.org/topic/gratitude/

Lifting Burdens: The Atonement of Jesus Christ

2011-01-31T07:50:00.004-07:00

Apostles of Jesus Christ testify of the Saviors power to heal, change, and purify us through His Atonement.

Choose This Day

2011-01-30T15:45:00.002-07:00

Henry B. Eyring, a disciple of Jesus Christ, urges us to seek God's help to overcome complacency and discouragement and find joy in serving Him today.

Infinite Power of Hope Infinite Power of Hope

2011-01-30T07:42:00.004-07:00

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, shares how hope encourages and inspires us to place our trust in the loving care of our Heavenly Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.

Mormon Messages: What Matters Most

2011-01-29T15:40:00.004-07:00

Mormon President Thomas S. Monson counsels us to spend time with, cherish, and express love to the people we hold dear. Read the entire talk here: http://bit.ly/1lzl5.

Finding Hope

2011-01-29T07:37:00.004-07:00

A man describes his journey from the tragedy and trauma of 9/11 to hope, healing, and renewal through Jesus Christ.

You're Never Alone

2011-01-28T15:35:00.004-07:00

A disciple of Jesus Christ, Elaine S. Dalton, describes how a grueling marathon taught her about prayer and the strength we can receive from God.

The Women in Our Lives

2011-01-28T07:12:00.006-07:00

President Gordon B. Hinckley honors the divine gifts possessed by women and testifies of their importance in God's plan. (The entire address is available here: http://bit.ly/2Fu5lm )

Counsel to Youth

2011-01-27T16:33:00.000-07:00

Boyd K. Packer, an apostle of the Lord Jesus Christ, teaches youth to find happiness through family, thrift, education, purity, good friends, and faith in the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

Pioneers: Followers of Jesus Christ

2011-01-27T07:31:00.003-07:00

God's Words Never Cease: The Bible, the Book of Mormon, and Continuing Revelation

2011-01-26T15:48:00.004-07:00

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland testifies of the truth of the Bible, the Book of Mormon, and continuing revelation from God to His children.

Marriage and Divorce

2011-01-26T07:46:00.004-07:00

Elder Dallin H. Oaks testifies that the Atonement of Jesus Christ can heal the pain of a troubled or broken marriage for all who humbly seek His help. Read the entire address: http://bit.ly/3h7VGf

The Freedom To...

2011-01-25T15:43:00.004-07:00

People from all over the world share their gratitude for the freedoms they enjoy.

Sunday Will Come

2011-01-25T07:40:00.004-07:00

The Resurrection and the Atonement of Christ are the pinnacle events in the history of the world. The darkness and sadness of Christs crucifixion did not endure. Christ was resurrected, enabling the resurrection of all mankind. In our lives we will have our dark days, but because of Jesus Christ we can have hope in overcoming our trials and ultimately returning to live with our Heavenly Father.

A Father Indeed

2011-01-24T15:39:00.004-07:00

The story of a committed husband and father who consistently and passionately demonstrates his love and devotion to his wife and kids.

Let Us Be Men

2011-01-24T07:36:00.006-07:00

A true man makes sacrifices in order to honor his commitments. Even though he will give much, the blessings he receives outweigh the sacrifice.

Trusting in the Lord

2011-01-23T15:35:00.004-07:00

Trust in the Lord's will and timetable. You will be supported in your trials and afflictions when you show your faith in Him.

O Remember, Remember

2011-01-23T07:32:00.004-07:00

Find ways to recognize and remember God's kindness. You will be blessed as you remember what the Lord has done.

Hope Ya Know, We Had a Hard Time

2011-01-22T15:28:00.004-07:00

This life is not always easy, nor was it meant to be; it is a time of testing and proving. At times when we may feel to say, Hope you know, I had a hard time, we can be assured that Jesus Christ is there and we are safe in His loving arms.

Blessings of the Priesthood

2011-01-22T07:27:00.004-07:00

The priesthood is the power of God, which is given to man to act in His name. It is here on the earth today. The blessings of the priesthood are available to everyone.

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!

2011-01-21T15:22:00.003-07:00

Teenagers talk about the wonderful things their mothers do. This Mother's Day, let your mom know how special she is. Share this video with your mother and express your love.

Virtue: For Such a Time as This (Esther 4:14)

2011-01-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

Young women of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints call for a return to virtue and share their commitment to live virtuous and exemplary lives in order to influence the world for good.

Little Children

2011-01-20T15:16:00.004-07:00

Matthew 19:14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

How Can I Find Happiness?

2011-01-20T07:10:00.004-07:00

Elder Scott explains that as you continue to center your mind and heart in the Lord, He will help you have a rich and full life no matter what happens in the world around you.

The Miracle of the Holy Bible

2011-01-19T15:10:00.000-07:00

It is a miracle that the Bible literally contains within its pages the converting, healing Spirit of Christ, which has turned mens hearts for centuries, leading them to pray, to choose right paths, and to search to find their Savior.

An Apostle's Easter Thoughts on Christ

2011-01-19T07:50:00.004-07:00

One of the great consolations of this Easter season is that because Jesus walked such a long, lonely path utterly alone, we do not have to do so.

Your Spiritual Journey: You Know Enough

2011-01-18T19:48:00.005-07:00

Our spiritual journey is the process of a lifetime. We do not know everything in the beginning or even along the way. Our conversion comes step-by-step, line upon line. We then remain steady and patient as we progress through mortality. At times, the Lords answer will be, You dont know everything, but you know enough—enough to keep the commandments and to do what is right.

God's Truths: Even a Child Can Understand

2011-01-18T07:44:00.005-07:00

God would indeed be unjust if the gospel were only accessible to an intellectual elite. In His goodness, He has ensured that the truths regarding God are understandable to all His children, whatever their level of education or intellectual faculty.

The Book of Mormon: A Book with a Promise

2011-01-17T19:41:00.004-07:00

The Book of Mormon is a book with a promise. Although its history is compelling by itself, it is a book of scriptural significance that should be received and read under the influence of the Holy Ghost.

Mormon Temples: The Blessings of the Temple

2011-01-17T07:35:00.004-07:00

The blessings of the Temple enable us to be sealed (connected) to our families after death and return back to the presence of our Father in Heaven. Visiting the Temple brings a sense of peace and spiritual strength.

Why Mormons Build Temples

2011-01-16T21:34:00.004-07:00

Throughout history, the Lord has commanded His people to build temples. Temples are literally houses of the Lord. They are holy places of worship where individuals make sacred promises with God.

Mormon Church Humanitarian Efforts Review

2011-01-16T07:15:00.004-07:00

The scripture passages "As ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" (Matthew 25:40) and "Remember in all things the poor and the needy" (D&C 52:40) take on special meaning as we review highlights of humanitarian endeavors
The things you do for yourself are gone when you are gone, but the things that you do for others remain as your legacy.

"SciFi" Mormon Ad

2011-01-15T19:13:00.005-07:00

Imagine what a little time can do for your family.

"Swashbuckler" Mormon Ad

2011-01-15T07:09:00.004-07:00

Imagine what a little time can do for your family.

Are Mormons Christians?

2011-01-14T19:05:00.004-07:00

Elder Gary J. Coleman talks about his conversion to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He speaks of his understanding of the true nature of the Godhead, access to additional scripture and revelation, and partaking of the blessings of priesthood authority.

Mormon Messages: Create

2011-01-14T07:01:00.006-07:00

Mormon leader President Dieter F. Uchtdorf invites us to rely on the Spirit and use our divinely inherited ability to create things of substance and beauty. Read the entire address here. To learn more about Mormons, visit http://www.mormon.org

How Do I Love Thee?

2011-01-13T18:56:00.004-07:00

Elder Holland gives a powerful talk about how you can better show love for your friends, family, dates or spouse by following the example of Jesus Christ.

Mormon Church: The Message of the Restoration

2011-01-13T06:52:00.004-07:00

"We declare to the world that the fullness of the gospel of Jesus Christ has been restored to the earth." —Elder L. Tom Perry: The Message of the Restoration

Come What May & Love It

2011-01-12T18:48:00.004-07:00

The way we react to adversity can be a major factor in how happy and successful we can be in life.

God's Words...Never Cease

2011-01-12T06:40:00.004-07:00

Elder Jeffery R. Holland testifies that God continues to speak His word and reveal His truth, revelations which mandate an open canon of scripture.

Mormon Message: The Only True God & Jesus Christ Whom He Has Sent

2011-01-11T21:38:00.004-07:00

Mormon Message: Lessons I Learned as a Boy

2011-01-11T09:36:00.004-07:00

Mormon Message: A Light Unto All: A Christmas Gift

2011-01-10T21:33:00.003-07:00

Mormon Messages: Tribute to Joseph B Wirthlin

2011-01-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

New Series: Mormon Messages Videos

2011-01-08T21:32:00.000-07:00

I have several projects coming down the pike the first part of the year, so I won't be able to devote as much time here as I would like. However, I would like to take a look back at the over 200 videos the Church has posted on YouTube. So, with two a day starting Monday, we'll cover the time from now until General Conference. I hope you enjoy!

Maybe Linus Was Right -- My Christmas Message 2010

2010-12-25T09:04:00.000-07:00

Maybe Linus was right.

In the 1965 TV special "A Charlie Brown Christmas," Charlie Brown proclaims to nobody in particular, "Isn't there anyone who knows what Christmas is all about?" His friend Linus speaks up, quoting from the second chapter of Luke:

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 'Fear not: for behold, I bring unto you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the City of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.' And 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.'"

Sometimes, we may feel like Longfellow:

And in despair I bowed my head:
"There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."

A large portion of my employment the last several years has been in the realms of sports and politics. My eyes were opened a little to my own contributions of hate while listening to President Uchtdorf this past General Conference:

Perhaps there is no better laboratory to observe the sin of pride than the world of sports. I have always loved participating in and attending sporting events. But I confess there are times when the lack of civility in sports is embarrassing. How is it that normally kind and compassionate human beings can be so intolerant and filled with hatred toward an opposing team and its fans?

I have watched sports fans vilify and demonize their rivals. They look for any flaw and magnify it. They justify their hatred with broad generalizations and apply them to everyone associated with the other team. When ill fortune afflicts their rival, they rejoice.

Brethren, unfortunately we see today too often the same kind of attitude and behavior spill over into the public discourse of politics, ethnicity, and religion.

My dear brethren of the priesthood, my beloved fellow disciples of the gentle Christ, should we not hold ourselves to a higher standard? As priesthood bearers, we must realize that all of God’s children wear the same jersey. Our team is the brotherhood of man. This mortal life is our playing field. Our goal is to learn to love God and to extend that same love toward our fellowman. We are here to live according to His law and establish the kingdom of God. We are here to build, uplift, treat fairly, and encourage all of Heavenly Father’s children.

After all, "When ye have done it unto the least of these, my bretheren, ye have done it unto me." (Matt 25:40). May we remember this Christmas season that "God is not dead, nor doth he sleep; The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, With peace on earth, good will to men."

And may God bless us, everyone.

Christmas in the Book of Mormon

2010-12-25T06:45:00.000-07:00

‎"Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets." -3 Nephi 1:13

1 Nephi 11:13-24

13And it came to pass that I looked and beheld the great city of Jerusalem, and also other cities. And I beheld the city of Nazareth; and in the city of Nazareth I beheld a virgin, and she was exceedingly fair and white.

14And it came to pass that I saw the heavens open; and an angel came down and stood before me; and he said unto me: Nephi, what beholdest thou?

15And I said unto him: A virgin, most beautiful and fair above all other virgins.

16And he said unto me: Knowest thou the condescension of God?

17And I said unto him: I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things.

18And he said unto me: Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God, after the manner of the flesh.

19And it came to pass that I beheld that she was carried away in the Spirit; and after she had been carried away in the Spirit for the space of a time the angel spake unto me, saying: Look!

20And I looked and beheld the virgin again, bearing a child in her arms.

21And the angel said unto me: Behold the Lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father! Knowest thou the meaning of the tree which thy father saw?

22And I answered him, saying: Yea, it is the love of God, which sheddeth itself abroad in the hearts of the children of men; wherefore, it is the most desirable above all things.

23And he spake unto me, saying: Yea, and the most joyous to the soul.

24And after he had said these words, he said unto me: Look! And I looked, and I beheld the Son of God going forth among the children of men; and I saw many fall down at his feet and worship him.

2 Nephi 19:6 "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called, Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

Christmas Quotes

2010-12-24T23:48:00.026-07:00

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! how dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus. It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias.
There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal life with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished. -New York Sun, 1897

Christmas is a time when you get homesick - even when you're home. ~Carol Nelson

He who has not Christmas in his heart will never find it under a tree. ~Roy L. Smith

I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round, as a good time; a kind, forgiving, charitable time; the only time I know of, in the long calendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open their shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really were fellow passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other journeys. ~Charles Dickens

May Peace be your gift at Christmas and your blessing all year through! ~Author Unknown

I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. ~Charles Dickens

I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!
~Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more. ~Dr Seuss

Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect. ~Oren Arnold

It might be pleasant to them to remember upon Christmas Day, who made lame beggars walk, and blind men see. -Bob Cratchit

I pray that during this season and always, we will see the purity of the story of the Savior’s birth and feel sincere gratitude for His life, teachings, and saving sacrifice for us. May this gratitude cause us to renew our determination to follow Him. May it also lead us to draw closer to our family, our church, and our fellowmen. And may we look steadfastly forward to that blessed day when the resurrected Christ will walk the earth again as our Lord, our King, and our blessed Savior. =President Deiter F Uchtdorf

Many of you will in the Christmas season find ways to give food to people who are hungry. As you do, you bring joy to the Lord. Yet He taught us that there is a way to give an even more priceless and lasting gift. He said, “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.”7 With all the kindnesses we give for Him, the greatest we can offer is to point those we love and serve toward Him, the only source of eternal life. -President Henry B Eyring

My brothers and sisters, may the spirit of love which comes at Christmastime fill our homes and our lives and linger there long after the tree is down and the lights are put away for another year. This is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord, amen. -President Thomas S Monson

On earth: peace, good will toward men. That's what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown. -Linus

Mr Kruger's Christmas

2010-12-24T18:05:00.002-07:00

President Thomas S Monson -- Christmas Devotional 2010

2010-12-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

My beloved brothers and sisters, it’s somewhat amazing to realize that an entire year has passed since the First Presidency Christmas Devotional of 2009. It seems that time goes by ever faster as the years pass.

As we have approached this special and sacred season, I have contemplated past Christmases. In looking back over the years, I find it is obvious that the Christmases I remember best, the Christmases which touched my heart the most, are Christmases filled with love and giving and the Spirit of the Savior. I believe that such would be true for all of us as we reminisce concerning our best-remembered Christmases. Bringing the Christmas spirit into our hearts and homes takes conscious effort and planning but can surely be accomplished.

My Christmas reading each year helps bring to me the spirit of the season. I always read the same three texts and have done so for more years than I can remember. I read once again a very small volume entitled The Mansion, by Henry Van Dyke. Its message always touches my heart. Also, I read the timeless Dickens classic A Christmas Carol. Who could fail to be inspired and taught by the changes which come to Ebenezer Scrooge as he is instructed by the ghosts of Christmas past, Christmas present, and Christmas future? Finally, I read from the second chapter of the Gospel of Luke, where the birth of the Savior of the world is recounted.

This year, as I was glancing through my extensive collection of Christmas stories, poems, and songs, I reread an account by John B. Matheson Jr., wherein he told of an experience he had 65 years ago, indicating that it was his most memorable Christmas. My heart was touched as I read of his poignant experience, and so I have felt to share it with you tonight, hoping that it will engender the Christmas spirit in you as well.

During Christmas 1945, John Matheson found himself serving in the army of occupation in Frankfurt, Germany. World War II had ended about seven months earlier, but during the conflict the city of Frankfurt had suffered much destruction. Most of the city was rubble. Many of the homes which had been left unscathed were taken over for housing the United States military. John and two other officers lived in a three-story house that easily could have served as a home for three families.

Each weekday, John and the other two officers would go to their office and return in the evening to find the beds made and the house spotlessly cleaned by an elderly German woman who was hired by the United States Army to be housekeeper for a number of houses in the area. Only occasionally would they see this frail little lady as she busily engaged in her tasks. Their conversations with her were limited, for she spoke no English and their German was poor; but through a sort of sign language and through smiles, they indicated satisfaction with her work.

Weekly, John went to the post exchange to get his ration of candy bars, soap, and incidentals. Though he sometimes grumbled about the poor selection available, he always purchased all he was allowed and put the excess into his footlocker.

As Christmas approached, John thought he should give some gift to the housekeeper; so from the abundance of his footlocker, he filled a large cardboard box with candy bars, soap, and cans of fruit juice. He knew that in the system of barter among the Germans, his gift to her was worth many, many dollars, but the cost to him was negligible.

Knowing she would not work on Christmas Day, as John left for the office on December 24th, he placed on the table where it would be seen his gift box and a Christmas greeting. All day he felt rather smug as he thought of his generous gift. The housekeeper would be like an heiress in the poverty of her neighborhood. How lucky she was, he thought. How beholden she would be to him—to the generous American. And yet his gift was not given in compassion but merely out of pity and for self-satisfaction.

As he approached the house in the darkness of the December evening, he saw the dim glow of the lamp filtering through the window. The house was still. He entered the home and saw that his gift and the recipient were gone. However, in the glow of that lamp, he saw on the table her Christmas note and her gift to him. He had expected no gift, but there it was—all she could afford and given in the spirit of Christmas.

What could a poor little old lady give? She could give from her poverty and from her heart her fondest memories of her beloved city of yesteryear, and she could give the Christmas star.

On that dimly lit table, along with her painstakingly written “Merry Christmas,” were 10 old and dog-eared picture postcard scenes of Frankfurt as it had appeared before the war had so devastated it. The housekeeper had placed each card on edge and fastened them together so that every 2 cards formed a point and all 10 together formed the Christmas star.

She had little to give. In fact, it was all she had. Though John Matheson lived to see many more Christmases, that little housekeeper’s Christmas star shone brightly throughout his life. He said that her “star of Bethlehem” implanted within him the Christmas spirit and taught him the true meaning of love and giving.1

Brothers and sisters, this joyful season brings to all of us a measure of happiness that corresponds to the degree to which we have turned our minds, feelings, and actions to the Savior, whose birth we celebrate.

There is no better time than now, this very Christmas season, for all of us to rededicate ourselves to the principles taught by Jesus the Christ. Let it be a time that lights the eyes of children and puts laughter on their lips. Let it be a time for lifting the lives of those who live in loneliness. Let it be a time for calling our families together, for feeling a closeness to those who are near to us and a closeness also to those who are absent.

Let it be a time of prayers for peace, for the preservation of free principles, and for the protection of those who are far from us. Let it be a time of forgetting self and finding time for others. Let it be a time for discarding the meaningless and for stressing the true values. Let it be a time of peace because we have found peace in His teachings.

Most of all, let it be a time to remember the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and the worship of the Wise Men.

My brothers and sisters, may the spirit of love which comes at Christmastime fill our homes and our lives and linger there long after the tree is down and the lights are put away for another year. This is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord, amen.

President Henry B. Eyring -- First Presidency Christmas Devotional 2010

2010-12-22T08:00:00.001-07:00

I am grateful for this opportunity to greet you as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. The prophet Isaiah spoke of Him centuries before His birth: “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”1

This little child, born in a stable and cradled in a manger, was a gift from our loving Heavenly Father. He was the promised Redeemer of the world, the Savior of mankind, the Son of the living God. He was with His Father before He came to earth in mortality, the Creator of the earth upon which we stand.

The great Apostle John gives us a sense of the greatness of this child in the courts on high, from which He came: “Without him was not any thing made that was made.”2 Yet He came to earth in humble circumstances.

He worked as a boy and a youth in the carpenter’s shop of Joseph in Nazareth. In His mortal ministry He walked the dusty roads of Palestine, healed the sick, raised the dead, taught His gospel to people who rejected Him, gave His life on Calvary’s hill, and rose on the third day in what began the Resurrection to break the bands of death for us all and so became “the firstfruits of them that slept.”3

Above all, the Savior whose birth we remember this season of the year paid the price of all of our sins. Again the prophet Isaiah, long before our Lord’s birth, saw the gift beyond price of the Atonement of Jesus Christ.

He gave us this description of what the Savior did for us:

“Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted.

“But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.”4

Those who have felt that peace and healing have their hearts filled with gratitude. And so do those who love them. My wife and I read messages and see photographs sent by two of our granddaughters serving as the Lord’s missionaries in South America. They send us photos of smiling people with joy shining in their faces. My granddaughters send messages of gratitude and love for the effects of the Atonement in the lives of people they have taught and seen transformed by their choice to follow the Savior’s example to be baptized and receive the ministration of the Holy Ghost.

As Latter-day Saints, we feel our hearts drawn out in gratitude to a loving Father and His Beloved Son. We are thankful to feel that blessing because of the faith of a 14-year-old boy, Joseph Smith. His prayer on a spring morning in 1820 made possible our receiving the sure witness that the Father, the great Elohim, and His Son, Jehovah, live and love us. They appeared and spoke with him in the full light of day. They called him by name.

The gift of that glorious assurance that we are known and loved can sustain us in the trials life will surely bring. We need never feel that we are alone. We need never give up hope.

I saw that on a day when I visited my elderly aunt in a rest home a few years ago. She was a widow. The effects of age left her unable to care for herself. Though I had known her since I was a little boy, she did not recognize me or others of her family in the crowded sitting room of the rest home.

I looked into her face expecting to see the pain of loneliness and of loss. Yet her face shone with love and radiant joy. Her voice had the happy sound I remembered from the days of long before. Most of the time I was with her that day she just looked at us pleasantly as we spoke to her.

Then, every few minutes, she would repeat with a radiant smile these six words, as if they were part of the conversation: “I know that my Redeemer lives.” It seemed to me that her joy and a sound of gratitude in her voice grew with each repetition of that declaration.

I cannot know all the sources of that miracle of peace in her life. But I know one. Since she was a little girl, she had been in sacrament meetings. She had bowed her head and heard words spoken in prayer to our Heavenly Father. Uncounted times she had pledged to take upon her the name of the Son, to always remember Him, and to keep His commandments that she might have His Spirit to be with her.5

And so, while the passing years had stripped away from her life so much of what had brought her joy, she retained the supernal gifts we can feel at Christmastime. She remembered her Redeemer. She knew that He lived. She felt His love. And she felt His love for all of Heavenly Father’s children, wherever they were and whatever their circumstances.

I realized, as we left her smiling presence, that she had been giving us the gift she had received. She knew the source of the peace she felt. And out of her gratitude and love for the Savior, she wanted us to share in the blessing with her. I had gone to comfort her and came away comforted.

That is the spirit of Christmas, which puts in our hearts a desire to give joy to other people. We feel a spirit of giving and gratitude for what we have been given. The celebration of Christmas helps us keep our promise to always remember Him and His gifts to us. And that remembrance creates a desire in us to give gifts to Him.

He has told us what we could give Him to bring Him joy. First, we can, out of faith in Him, give a broken heart and a contrite spirit. We can repent and make sacred covenants with Him. Within the sound of my voice are some who have felt His invitation to the peace His gospel brings but have not yet accepted it. You would give Him joy if you would act now to come unto Him while you can.

Second, you can give Him the gift of doing for others what He would do for them. Many of you have already done that and felt His appreciation. It may have been visiting a lonely widower. It may have been joining with others in a project to help those in need.

There is a long list of possibilities in the book of Matthew. There we read words from our Redeemer, which we all hope to hear and to speak when we see Him after this life:

“Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?

“When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?

“Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

“And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”6

In those words the Lord makes clear what gifts we might give Him out of our gratitude. Each act of kindness to anyone becomes a kindness to Him because He loves all of Heavenly Father’s children. And because that brings joy to Him, it also brings joy to His Father, to whom we owe thanks beyond measure.

Many of you will in the Christmas season find ways to give food to people who are hungry. As you do, you bring joy to the Lord. Yet He taught us that there is a way to give an even more priceless and lasting gift. He said, “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.”7 With all the kindnesses we give for Him, the greatest we can offer is to point those we love and serve toward Him, the only source of eternal life.

The most precious gift I have to give is my witness of the Savior. I testify that He was born of Mary as the Son of God. He lived a perfect life. Through the Prophet Joseph Smith, He restored His gospel to the earth and the keys of His priesthood to those who have passed them on to this blessed day. I know by the Spirit that Thomas S. Monson holds and exercises those keys in our time.

I leave you my love and my blessing. I am grateful for your inspiring examples of love, faith, and service, which bring joy to my life. In the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf -- First Presidency Christmas Devotional 2010

2010-12-21T08:00:00.004-07:00

Isn’t this a wonderful time of the year! So many things fill our hearts with the spirit of Christmas: the melody of Christmas carols, the lights, the decorations, and the happy greetings of “Merry Christmas!”

There are certain words that ring like bells in my soul and remind me of the beauty and meaning of Christmas—words such as “And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus”1 and, of course, “Joy to the World!” “Away in a Manger,” and “Silent Night.”

There are other words, more cautionary, that are worthy of our consideration as well—words such as:

Every Who
Down in Who-ville
Liked Christmas a lot . . .
But the Grinch,
Who lived just north of Who-ville,
Did NOT!2
The Grinch, that memorable character from a classic children’s story by Dr. Seuss, had a heart that “was two sizes too small,” and he 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.

Perhaps the Grinch’s story is so memorable because, if we are honest, we may be able to relate to him. Who among us has not felt concern over the commercialization and even greed of the Christmas season? Who hasn’t felt overwhelmed by the packed calendars, the stress of finding gifts, the pressure of planning meals and events? In fact, psychologists tell us that during this season of cheer and goodwill, many feel sorrow and depression.

We 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 sometimes our focus is so much on the things that annoy and overwhelm us that we can almost hear ourselves say in unison with the Grinch: “Why, for fifty-three years I’ve put up with it now! I MUST stop this Christmas from coming! . . . But HOW?”

While it’s true that 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.

Looking for Christ
As an old family tradition, our family has always celebrated the Advent of Christmas. Starting on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, we would get together on Sunday afternoons, light wax candles on a pine Advent wreath, enjoy delicious homemade cookies, and read passages of scriptures that center on the Christ.

We read accounts of ancient prophets who yearned for the coming of the Messiah. We read scriptures that proclaim the wondrous story of His birth. Each week by singing beautiful Christmas songs and having a fun time together, our family tried to refocus on the true meaning of the season. I must admit that delicious hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and tasty homemade cookies helped a lot to catch the joyful feeling of the Christmas season!

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.

When we prepare for Christmas by pondering its real meaning, we prepare to experience the Christ and His message. May I suggest three things we may want to study, ponder, and apply in this season of preparation.

Rejoice in the Birth of Our Savior
First, rejoice in the birth of our Savior. We celebrate the birth of the Son of God, the Creator, our Messiah. We rejoice that the King of kings came to earth, was born in a manger, and lived a perfect life. When Jesus was born, the joy in heaven was so great it could not be contained, and angelic hosts parted the veil, proclaiming unto shepherds “good tidings of great joy, . . . praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”3

Wise Men “rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when . . . they saw the young child with Mary his mother, [they] fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts.”4

It is only fitting that we—like the Wise Men, shepherds, and angels—take time to rejoice and celebrate that glorious first Christmas Day.

Ponder His Influence in Our Lives Today
Second, ponder His influence in our lives today. The more commercialized and busy the Christmas season becomes, the easier it is for the sublime message of the Savior’s life to get lost along the way. If we notice that planning for parties and scrambling for presents begin to detract from the peaceable message of Jesus Christ and distance us from the gospel He preached, let us take a step back, slow down a little, and reconsider what matters most.

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 it 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.

Look Steadfastly for His Coming
Third, look steadfastly for His coming. The early disciples of Jesus Christ yearned for the time when He would come again. For them, mortality was a time of preparation and growth, of sifting and refining, a time for trimming their lamps and preparing for the return of their beloved Savior.

Brothers and sisters, 2,000 years later we also stand as His disciples. We are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The term latter-day is significant. We live and serve in a time prior to the Lord’s triumphant return. Our work is to prepare ourselves and the world for the coming of the Messiah in glory!

Not long after His mortal ministry, Christ said to the Apostle John, “Surely I come quickly.” And John answered, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”5

We live in the 11th hour before the coming of the day of our Lord. Let us therefore look forward to that blessed day when the King of kings descends with a shout,6 takes away death, dries up tears, and ushers in a new era of peace, joy, and learning.

While the Christmas season is typically a time for looking back and celebrating the birth of our Lord, it seems to me that it should also be a time of looking to the future. Let us look forward. Let us prepare for that blessed day when He will come again. Let us be as wise as those ancients who watched for His coming. As His disciples, let us have in our hearts and minds the words of John: “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.”

Seeing Christmas with New Eyes
If we look for what is wrong with the Christmas season, we can surely find it. Like the Grinch, we can grumble and complain, becoming cold and cynical about what we see around us. Nevertheless, if we look for the good, we can see this time of year with new eyes—perhaps even with the eyes of a child.

The Grinch saw the good in Christmas when he learned to look past its worldly trappings. If we do the same, we can, with the Grinch, proclaim: “Maybe Christmas . . . doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas . . . perhaps . . . means a little bit more!”

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 Christmastime and throughout the year.

I pray that during this season and always, we will see the purity of the story of the Savior’s birth and feel sincere gratitude for His life, teachings, and saving sacrifice for us. May this gratitude cause us to renew our determination to follow Him. May it also lead us to draw closer to our family, our church, and our fellowmen. And may we look steadfastly forward to that blessed day when the resurrected Christ will walk the earth again as our Lord, our King, and our blessed Savior.

I pray that each and every one of you will have a wonderful and merry Christmas season. I leave you my love and blessings in the sacred name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Kids and Christmas

2010-12-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

What Shall We Give?

2010-12-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

A Light Unto All: A Christmas Gift

2010-12-18T08:00:00.002-07:00

Mormon Tabernacle Choir - Rejoice and Be Merry: Nativity Play

2010-12-17T08:04:00.001-07:00

The Greatest Gift

2010-12-16T11:25:00.002-07:00

Tabernacle Choir -- Hallelujah Chorus

2010-12-15T11:20:00.003-07:00

VIDEO: Christmas Spirit

2010-12-14T11:15:00.002-07:00

Breath of Heaven/The Nativity Mashup

2010-12-13T11:15:00.000-07:00

Relief Society Song from Alex Boye'

2010-12-06T12:37:00.000-07:00