Sisters and Brothers—
Tomorrow, a so-called “Christmas Star” will appear when Jupiter and Saturn line up in the southwest night sky. While maybe not bright enough to direct traveling wise men from the east, the star can be a reminder of those who sought Christ so diligently that they traveled miles and miles, over harsh terrain and with what was surely a caravan of people and supplies to simply pay respect and offer gifts.
When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
Matthew 2:10-11
While there’s a lot we don’t know about these wise men from the east — including how many there were — clearly they knew the signs of the Messiah’s birth, were sensitive to the Spirit and were dedicated enough to follow through with what they knew.
As I consider what I can offer Christ at this time we celebrate His birth, I recall Lehi’s teachings where he talked about one of the few things we can truly offer the King of Kings and Lord of Lords — our hearts.
Wherefore, men are free according to the flesh; and all things are given them which are expedient unto man. And they are free to choose liberty and eternal life, through the great Mediator of all men, or to choose captivity and death, according to the captivity and power of the devil; for he seeketh that all men might be miserable like unto himself.
2 Nephi 2:27
Agency is an eternal gift from the Father and enables us to accept the grace that Christ affords.
As you make the final preparations for family presents, traditions and food, please find a time to “Let ev’ry heart prepare him room.”
Light the World Service Project
Thanks to everyone that participated in the ward service project. We hoped it would be a unifying activity that would give us a chance to work on a common cause and show service to those around us. We were blown away by all who participated. A special thanks goes to Brother Eric Summers, who coordinated the effort.
Sacrament meeting
Today, in-person sacrament meeting will be for families whose last names begin with letters between A through G. Others are encouraged to administer the sacrament at home and watch sacrament meeting at the link below:
We will have Sunday School classes today, like normal. To find links to the various classes, please visit the website below:
Schedule for 2021
Like many of you, I look forward to the “fresh start” offered by the upcoming new year. The new year also brings a change to our meeting schedule. Our ward’s sacrament meeting will switch to 10:30 a.m.
I love you all and hope you will make room in your heart for Christ this season.
Bishop Bennett