Christmas message

I had to give a talk in church today, and I told my mom I would post my remarks here.

Under Christmas trees in homes all over our neighborhood sit packaged gifts -- wrapped presents awaiting just the right time to be opened. Some of the gifts are probably immaculately wrapped, with color-coordinated paper and sparkling ribbon and matching tags. Others are probably more like those in my household -- a little clumsily put together -- but they all reflect a certain amount of thought and love. We wouldn't want any of these gifts to go unopened.

We give presents this season partly because that's what the Wise Men did upon finding young Jesus. It also reminds us, of course, of Christ's wonderful gift to us: the atonement. That's why I celebrate.

I've always believed in Jesus Christ. I've always acknowledged the miracle of his resurrection. I've always believed he made it possible for man to live again with Heavenly Father.

And yet, for many years, even as I tried to do what was right, I did not personalize the atonement. It was something I read about in the scriptures and learned about at church, but it was for everyone else. Not me. My testimony then, I realize, was akin to telling Jesus, "Oh, thank you for the present!" but never actually opening it.

Then I had a period in my life where I was discouraged over many mistakes I had made. Through deep soul-searching and prayer, I opened the atonement. Tried it on. Wore it. Used it. It was the perfect size. It was just what I needed. And I can open it again and again.

I am so grateful for that time in my life because those experiences, and the depth of my feeling, gave me a more sure knowledge of Christ's love for us, and for me.

I pray we can use this time of year to more fully embrace the atonement. I hope we can follow the words from the hymn* and cast out our sins so Christ can enter in and Be born in us today.*


*reference to the choir singing "O Little Town of Bethlehem," verse 5