Being Truly Converted

I spoke today in the Rancho San Bernardino Ward. I am grateful for the opportunity to speak, and especially grateful to those who serve as translators.

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Good morning, dear brothers and sisters. It is always a blessing to worship with you and to feel of your love and strength. I am here by assignment from President Garvin, and I bring you his love and greetings.

As we have studied Come, Follow Me in our homes this year, we have had the opportunity to walk with the Savior and to know him better. I hope that we have also gained a desire to become more like him. That is truly why we are here on earth in this mortal life; it is why we meet here to worship Jesus Christ and to renew our covenants.

Through our studies, we have also become acquainted with Christ’s disciples, especially his chief apostle, Peter.

In an important moment, Jesus asked his disciples “Whom say ye that I am?”

Peter responded with conviction: “thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.”

“And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 16:15–17).

From this conversation, we learn that a testimony is personal knowledge of spiritual truth obtained by revelation. Think of that! We have the right to receive personal revelation from the Holy Ghost. A testimony is a gift from God, and it is available to all of His children.

The Book of Mormon tells us that we can receive revelation if we ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, and faith in Christ. (see Moroni 10:3-5).

In our studies, we joined the Savior with his disciples at the Last Supper, where he said to Peter:

“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to … sift you as wheat:

“But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren” (Luke 22:31–32).

What did Jesus mean when he said this? Peter had walked and talked with him. He had witnessed many miracles and heard his teachings. Wasn’t that enough?

No. Even Peter needed to be taught about the converting and sanctifying power of the Holy Ghost. Remember that they had not yet received the gift of the Holy Ghost and had no experience with it.

The gospel of Jesus Christ, and the plan of salvation, go beyond just having a testimony. To truly follow Christ requires a permanent change in our natures, made possible through the Atonement of Jesus Christ. Elder Bednar taught us that: “True conversion brings a change in one’s beliefs, heart, and life to accept and conform to the will of God (see Acts 3:19; 3 Nephi 9:20) and includes a conscious commitment to become a disciple of Christ”. (CR, Oct 2012)

True conversion enlarges our testimonies, just as a growing tree sinks its roots deep into the soil for nourishment and stability (see Alma 32). Conversion comes through revelation from God, which leads us to continue to repent, and to be obedient and diligent in living the gospel. Alma spoke of the “mighty change of heart,” and of being “spiritually born of God” (see Alma 5:12-14).

If we will honor the ordinances and covenants of salvation and exaltation (see D&C 20:25), “press forward with a steadfastness in Christ” (2 Nephi 31:20), and endure in faith to the end (see D&C 14:7), we will become new creatures in Christ (see 2 Corinthians 5:17), and we will be prepared to live with our Father in Heaven, enjoying the wonderful blessings he promises us.

Amaleki testified: “I would that ye should come unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and offer your whole souls as an offering unto him” (Omni 1:26).

King Benjamin’s people responded to his teaching by exclaiming, “Yea, we believe all the words which thou hast spoken unto us; and also, we know of their surety and truth, because of the Spirit of the Lord Omnipotent, which has wrought a mighty change in us, or in our hearts, that we have no more disposition to do evil, but to do good continually” (Mosiah 5:2). Accepting his words, gaining a testimony of their truthfulness, and exercising faith in Christ produced a mighty change of heart and a firm determination to improve and become better.

Samuel the Lamanite spoke of the converted Lamanites who were “striving with unwearied diligence that they may bring the remainder of their brethren to the knowledge of the truth” (Helaman 15:5–6). 

Do you recognize what they were doing? They were ministering!

Having a testimony is important. But testimony is the starting point in our journey to eternal life; it is not the destination.

Elder Bednar taught that: “Testimony alone is not and will not be enough to protect us in the latter-day storm of darkness and evil in which we are living. Testimony is important and necessary but not sufficient to provide the spiritual strength and protection we need” (CR, Oct 2012).

Doesn’t this make you think of what President Nelson said in Conference last year? “But in coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost” (CR, Apr 2018).

Samuel the Lamanite identified five basic elements in becoming converted unto the Lord:

(1) believing in the teachings and prophecies of the holy prophets as they are recorded in the scriptures,
(2) exercising faith in the Lord Jesus Christ,
(3) repenting,
(4) experiencing a mighty change of heart, and (5) becoming “firm and steadfast in the faith” (see Helaman 15:7–8).

This is the pattern that leads to conversion.

Once we experience this mighty change of heart, we will feel a strong desire to minister to our brothers and sisters who are not enjoying the blessings of the gospel right now. We will desire with all our hearts to help them return to full fellowship in the Church.

Continuing conversion must come from a willing heart. We must feel the desire to be true followers of Jesus Christ and to walk in His footsteps. We are free to choose to follow Jesus or to be left behind.

Knowing that the gospel is true is the essence of a testimony. Being true to the gospel is the essence of conversion.

We should know the gospel is true and be true to the gospel.

Yo testifico que ésta es la iglesia verdadera de Jesúcristo. Yo sé que Russell M. Nelson es nuestro profeta viviente hoy. Él habla con dios.

Yo testifico que Díos vive. Él nos ama. Jesucristo es nuestro Salvador y redentor.

De eso les testifico, en el nombre sagrado de Jesucristo, amen.

Blessed, Honored Pioneers

The following approximates the talk I gave in Highlands Ward this morning. My assignment was to speak without text, which I did. This is a reconstruction of my talk, as I remember it. The exception is the poem Jacob Peart, Sr. wrote, which was not part of my talk.

I am profoundly grateful for the sacrifices of my ancestors to embrace the true restored gospel of Jesus Christ, regardless of personal cost. I am also deeply grateful to my parents, grandparents, and my Uncle Donald Peart, who invested countless hours (and shekels) to search out our family history.

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When I was turning twelve, I had already developed an interest in family history. My Uncle Don, who had been deeply involved in research, sent my a copy of my four-generation family group sheets along with a short letter, which made a deep impression on me. He encouraged me in my interest in family history, and then wrote that he was sharing a thought that he hoped would come to mean as much to me as it has to him: “No one shall know my ancestors better than I.”

That thought has stuck with me all these years. As I read and retell the stories  of my pioneer ancestors, I am thankful for all he did. When my dad retired, he and mom began compiling family histories, complete with photos and documents. Each Christmas I looked forward to receiving another CD full of new information. Last year, my dad handed me one, and told me “this is the last one.”

I am deeply grateful for our shared pioneer heritage. Whether you come from pioneer stock, or share the heritage as a member of The Church of Jesus Christ, you are a part of the pioneer heritage. And those of you who are first and second generation members of the Church are certainly pioneers, as you blaze new trails in your own lives. In many ways, you are experiencing many of the same challenges that our pioneer ancestors faced.

In a sense, aren’t we all pioneers, as we face new challenges and opportunities in our lives? President Hinckley has said that the challenges we face today are no less difficult than those the pioneers of last century had to face. And I sometimes think I would rather deal with crossing the plains than with many of the challenges of modern life.

I have felt prompted to share some of the life of Jacob Peart, Sr., my third great grandfather. Jacob was born and lived in Alston, Cumberland, England, an area with many sheep farms, and metal mining.

As we know, the first missionaries came to England in 1837. One of the missionaries, Isaac Russell, felt inspired to share the gospel with relatives who lived up the coast from Liverpool. He shared the restored gospel with his cousin Jacob Peart, who, with his family members who were of age, were among the first converts to the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. He was a faithful member in the Alston Branch.

When the Brethren returned to America, Jacob was assigned to watch over the Branch (Branch President) and to assist the members in their preparations to migrate to America. Eventually, in 1841, Jacob Peart, Sr. along with his wife and six children, left heir homeland for Zion. Within a few months of their arrival, Jacob’s wife passed away, followed in the next 18 months by their four daughters. About a year later, a son also passed away, leaving Jacob, Jr. as the only surviving child. 

The records state that he, too, became very ill, but was healed by “the power of faith.,” under the administration of the Prophet Joseph.

Jacob, Sr. was a poet, and wrote the following about the loss of his beloved Elizabeth:

"In Joseph's city lies.
Deep in the earth's cold bed.
The partner of my youth.
There numbered with the dead.

"Her heart was full of love.
While actions graced her soul;
Truth was the language of her heart.
And all her ways control,

"Her love to me was great;
I never shall forget;
Though heaven and earth shall pass away,
I will remember yet.

"How lovely and how pure
Sweet and serene her mind.
Her duties, cheerful to perform,
Was ever her design.

"The time is rolling round.
When we again shall meet;
With everlasting glory crowned.
And happiness complete."

In spite of this great loss, he did not complain, nor did he lose faith in the gospel. He wrote: “These Bereavements were great trials to me, but I knew the work of God was true, and I was at all times ready to say thy will be done.” Can you imagine bearing a loss like this with such courage?

Both Jacob, Sr. and Jacob, Jr. recorded the day the bodies of Joseph and Hyrum were returned to Nauvoo, and the great sorrow that was felt as the wagon traveled down the street. Jacob, Jr., at eight years old, was deeply touched seeing the bodies of these great men, a memory which he carried for the remainder of his life.

At the age of eight, Jacob, Jr. witnessed the Elders baptizing in the Mississippi River. He requested baptism and became a full-fledged member of the Church.

When the Saints were expelled from Nauvoo, many of the men and boys sought work outside of Nauvoo to raise badly needed funds for the trek west. Jacob, Sr., went to St. Joseph, Missouri to work and to get outfitted to go west with the Vanguard Company, the first company of pioneers in 1847. A severe storm delayed his journey, and he arrived in Winter Quarters three days late for the departure. 

Jacob gave away all his provisions, and went back to work. The two Jacobs, with Jacob, Sr.’s new wife, went to Salt Lake City in 1848, in the Brigham Young company.

There, he remained a faithful member of the Church. He was said to have been reliable and respected. He died in Jacob, Jr.’s home in 1874.

As a young adult, Jacob, Jr. was called to the Cotton Mission in Southern Utah. While there, he did something that suggests one the sources of my own sense of humor. He sat atop one of the bluffs south of what is now Saint George, tending sheep. He had plenty of time for reflection, and we believe that the irony of his position struck him. He had been called to grow cotton, and there he sat raising wool, instead.

One day, he climbed onto the sandstone face of the bluff and carved into the sandstone “I was set here to rais cotton”[sic]. This was accompanied by a picture of a cotton tree, and a head, presumably Brigham Young’s.

Jacob, Jr. was also a faithful member, who remained true to his covenants.

I pray that we may all remain faithful to our covenants, in spite of the challenges that may confront us.

I testify that as we remain true and strive to follow the Savior, we will enjoy blessings that are wonderful beyond anything we can imagine.

In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

Following the Living Prophet Through Continuing Revelation

I spoke today in my home ward and felt the guidance of the Spirit as I prepared for this one. That made it a humbling experience for me. The Stake Presidency was in attendance in our meeting, which also made it humbling. I am grateful for the privilege and responsibility that I enjoy as a High Councilor to speak regularly.

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Dear brothers and sisters, I am thankful to be here with you today, to worship our Heavenly Father on this beautiful Sabbath morning. I hope you heard the birds singing this morning. It's a reminder to me that the Lord is still at work in the world.

I bring you love and greetings from President Garvin and his counselors. They pray for you and are aware of many of your concerns.

Brother Ashton and I are here today by assignment from the Stake Presidency.

I pray for the guidance of the Spirit as I speak, so that each of us may understand what the Lord would have us learn.

In Primary, I learned a great truth: “We believe all that God has revealed, all that He does now reveal, and we believe that He will yet reveal many great and important things pertaining to the Kingdom of God.”[1]

In Seminary, additional truths were added that made a deep impression on me. One of these was in the Doctrine and Covenants. “If thou shalt ask, thou shalt receive revelation upon revelation, knowledge upon knowledge, that thou mayest know the mysteries and peaceable things—that which bringeth joy, that which bringeth life eternal.”[2]

In the chorus of a beloved hymn, we sing

“Lead me, guide me, walk beside me,
Help me find the way.
Teach me all that I must do
To live with him someday.”[3]

What is the common thread here? I believe it is the doctrine of revelation. The 9^th Article of Faith declares our belief in continuing revelation, Section 42 contains the promise of personal revelation, and I Am A Child of God reminds us of our need for personal revelation.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is a gospel of revelation. It was established in our day with a glorious revelation of God the Father and his Son, Jesus Christ to the boy Joseph Smith. The restoration of the gospel came by revelation through Joseph Smith and subsequent prophets, and it continues today under President Russell M. Nelson, our living prophet.

When we look at these great revelations and these great revelators, we may be tempted to ask ourselves why we need personal revelation when these prophets are here to guide us. I think that is a fair question.

Do we need personal revelation? And if so, why is it important to us?

To me, the answer is a resounding “Yes!” We need personal revelation more than ever.

The prophets of our dispensation have taught some important principles concerning revelation.

Joseph Smith said:

“We believe that we have a right to revelations, visions, and dreams from God, our heavenly Father; and light and intelligence, through the gift of the Holy Ghost, in the name of Jesus Christ, on all subjects pertaining to our spiritual welfare; if it so be that we keep his commandments, so as to render ourselves worthy in his sight.”[4]

“It is the privilege of the children of God to come to God and get revelation. … God is not a respecter of persons; we all have the same privilege.”[5]

Pres. Nelson, in April Conference last year, gave us this memorable counsel:

“In coming days, it will not be possible to survive spiritually without the guiding, directing, comforting, and constant influence of the Holy Ghost.

“My beloved brothers and sisters, I plead with you to increase your spiritual capacity to receive revelation. … Choose to do the spiritual work required to enjoy the gift of the Holy Ghost and hear the voice of the Spirit more frequently and more clearly.

“If we are to have any hope of sifting through the myriad of voices and the philosophies of men that attack truth, we must learn to receive revelation.”[6]

Not only are we entitled to personal revelation within our own stewardships; we are obligated to seek it. This is a principle of personal revelation.

However, we are only entitled to revelation within our own stewardships. What are our stewardships?

Brigham Young offered this comment:

“There is no doubt, if a person lives according to the revelations given to God’s people, he may have the Spirit of the Lord to signify to him his will, and to guide and to direct him in the discharge of his duties, in his temporal as well as his spiritual exercises. I am satisfied, however, that in this respect, we live far beneath our privileges.”[7]

Think of that, brothers and sisters, we could be receiving much more direction from the Lord than we are now. We must simply be willing to do the work, as President Young and President Nelson instructed.

So, our stewardships are our temporal and our spiritual duties. They include

1.     Ourselves;

2.     Our employment and volunteer activities;

3.     Our families;

4.    Those to whom we minister, while respecting their stewardships;

5.     Our callings and assignments, within the bounds designated by our file leaders and the Lord.

There are limitations placed on our stewardships. My stewardship over my family is a shared stewardship with my dear companion. Our temple covenants make this clear. I would be a poor steward without her inspiration.

Although I have been called to counsel with the Bishop and with our Elder’s Quorum Presidency, and to counsel with our Stake Presidency, I recognize that they hold the keys for our ward and our stake. Because of these keys, I can advise, but not direct them in their responsibilities. I do not have the right to receive revelation for them.

And I am certainly not entitled to receive revelation on matters of Church doctrine or policy. Only one person has that right at any given time. As soon as we begin to think otherwise, we no longer stand in holy places, but are on shaky ground.

Remember, President Nelson told us that we need to develop our ability to receive personal revelation. He promised us that “Through the manifestations of the Holy Ghost, the Lord will assist us in all our righteous pursuits.”[8]

Elder Rasband stated that “The Holy Ghost binds us to the Lord.” Isn’t that what we really need? Don’t we want to bound more securely to the Savior?

What revelation do we need in our lives? Let me suggest six areas as a starting point.

1.     Revelations leading to testimony. You have certainly received some of these revelations.

We are familiar with Joseph Smith’s experiences; we are familiar with Moroni’s promise, in which he counsels us to “ask God, the Eternal Father, in the name of Christ, if these things are not true;” and he promises if we “shall ask with a sincere heart, with real intent, having faith in Christ, he will manifest the truth of it unto [us], by the power of the Holy Ghost.”[9]

If we follow this formula, not only will we gain a testimony of the Book of Mormon, but also a testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ and his atonement. Indeed, we may receive a revelatory witness from the Spirit regarding any and all doctrines and principles of the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. Moroni testified that “by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.”[10]

2.    Revelations to assist in making important decisions.

President Nelson, in speaking of his own family, said “Each of these blessings has come as a result of seeking and heeding the promptings of the Holy Ghost.”[11]

Over the years, many of the apostles have echoed this sentiment as they spoke of their decisions to marry their wives in the temple.

I have sought the Lord’s direction many times in my life. Most noteworthy was when I felt that I needed Heidi in my life and asked for the Lord’s guidance. The Lord has also given me guidance in choices regarding schooling, career opportunities, and even a career change. He has directed us in countless other decisions, large and small. I know he will provide direction, if we ask.

3.    Revelations to help guide loved ones.

In our study of Come, Follow Me this year, we have already seen how Joseph received revelations that blessed his family.

An angel told him in a dream that he should take Mary as his wife; he was warned by an angel in a dream to take Mary and her son into Egypt; and he was warned once again by an angel to go to Nazareth in Galilee. His obedience to these revelations blessed his young family.

As parents and grandparents, our children and grandchildren are a significant part of our stewardship.  However, we must respect their agency, especially as adults.

Heidi has always been better at this than I have been. Even when our children were young, she helped them to seek the Lord’s guidance in deciding whether to have a surgery, for example. Because of her inspired guidance, they learned early to “counsel with the Lord in all [their] doings,” and they received his directions for good.[12]

They have been blessed beyond measure because they learned to rely on the Lord. I have been blessed as well.

4.    Revelations leading to repentance and forgiving.

Why do I mention this one? Because these revelations have been important in my life.

If we are open to the Spirit, the Lord will reveal to us the things we need to repent of. Sometimes that revelation comes through our spouses or children. This kind of revelation is not always easy to accept.

I have also experienced instances in my life where the Lord revealed to me that I needed to forgive certain individuals. This was also difficult, but it led to some choice spiritual experiences in my life. I am grateful that I have been directed to utilize the Atonement of Jesus Christ in both repenting and forgiving.

5.    Revelations regarding our callings.

I testify to you that our leaders are inspired of God in issuing callings to us. I have seen inspiration at work many, many times in the various councils I have participated in.

If we are called by inspiration, why shouldn’t we use inspiration in fulfilling our callings?

Many of the Sections in the Doctrine and Covenants came because early members came to Joseph Smith to learn God’s will for them.

The Lord is eager to inspire us to help us to magnify our callings. You have felt this as you seek to magnify your callings; I have felt it in connection with my callings. Sometimes these promptings come after much prayer and effort; other times, they come spontaneously. It may be revelation on how to teach a particular gospel truth, or on how to reach an individual in a class or quorum. The Lord is eager to provide assistance.

Most importantly, in our roles as ministering brothers and sisters, we cannot properly fulfill our responsibilities and change lives without revelation. A committed, effective, ministering brother or sister will be praying for the Lord’s guidance to bring their brother or sister closer to the Savior. Many of you have experienced this as you have served.

6.    Revelations when preparing and giving talks. Have you ever prepared a talk that just seemed to write itself? That has become a common but much appreciated experience for me as I have served as a High Councilor. At other times, I have had to struggle to know what the Lord would like me to say. Either way, I have come to trust in the Lord’s willingness to help. If I humbly seek to deliver the message he wants me to deliver, he will guide me to say what he wants me to say.

And honestly, we should all be preparing to listen to the talks every week, so we can reap the benefits of being at church.

As we listen to the speakers in our meetings, we frequently have insights given us by the Holy Ghost. Interestingly, most of these insights have little to do with the words being spoken, and more to do with the spirit that we and the speakers invite into our meetings.

And this is why reverence before sacrament meeting is so important. We all need this revelation. We all have the right to ponder quietly before the meeting in preparation to receive the promptings that are vital to us. We all have the responsibility to allow others to enjoy this quiet communion with the Spirit before our meetings.

Of course, there are many other areas of our lives where we need revelation, information from someone far wiser than we.

We often think of the temple as a house of revelation, and it should be for all of us. But the chapel should also be a place of revelation. And our homes should be just as sacred. We should stand in holy places and make the places holy where we stand.

Isaiah counseled us to:

“Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:

“Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon”.[13]

The Lord counseled Moses:

“But if … thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.”[14]

We are commanded to seek the Lord, and we are given the wonderful promise that if we seek him, he will reveal himself to us, if we seek him sincerely.

I believe very strongly that when we seek the Lord, and when we counsel with him in our doings, it should be with the desire to know his will, not to justify our own will.

Nor will the Lord force his will on us. In the hymns, we sing--or perhaps not; I have only sung this once in 60 years—the following:

“He’ll call, persuade, direct aright,
And bless with wisdom, love, and light,
In nameless ways be good and kind,
But never force the human mind.”[15]

This is the revelation we seek as we strive to follow the prophet.

I testify that God lives, and that he does reveal his mind and will to his children on earth.

I testify that Russell M. Nelson is his living prophet on earth today, and that he receives direction for the church and for the world, from our Heavenly Father.

And I know that when we receive personal revelation from our Heavenly Father, we will be enabled to follow the prophet with greater faith. God wants us to receive that revelation, I testify, in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

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[1] Articles of Faith 9.

[2] Doctrine and Covenants 42:61.

[3] Randall, NW, I Am A Child of God, Hymns, 301.

[4] Letter from Joseph Smith to Isaac Galland, Mar. 22, 1839, Liberty Jail, Liberty, Missouri, published in Times and Seasons, Feb. 1840, p. 54.

[5] Discourse given by Joseph Smith about July 1839 in Commerce, Illinois; reported by Willard Richards, in Willard Richards, Pocket Companion, pp. 75, 78–79, Church Archives.

[6] Nelson, RM, Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives, April 2018 General Conference, https://www.lds.org/general-conference/2018/04/revelation-for-the-church-revelation-for-our-lives?lang=eng

[7] Discourses of Brigham Young, sel. and arr. by John A. Widtsoe, Salt Lake City: Deseret Book Co., 1973, p. 32; emphasis added.

[8] Nelson, RM, Ibid.

[9] The Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ, Moroni 10:4.

[10] Op. cit. Moroni 10:5. Italics mine.

[11] Nelson, RM, op. cit.

[12] Op. cit. Alma 37:37.

[13] KJV, Isaiah 55:6-7.

[14] KJV, Deuteronomy 4:29.

[15] Anonymous, Know This, That Every Soul Is Free, Hymns, 240.

Seeking Christ and the True Meaning of Christmas

I gave this talk today in two wards. This is the text I used for the English-speaking ward. The talk for the Spanish-speaking ward was similar.

I felt blessed to speak on the true meaning of Christmas.

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My dear brothers and sisters, I am grateful to be with you today, to worship with you and to feel of the Spirit.

I am blessed to be here by assignment this morning. And I am grateful for my speaking companion.

I pray that Spirit will be with us, and that we may all be enlightened by the things we will hear and feel.

I love Christmas season. I have always loved Christmas season. The festive decorations, the gifts, and the friendly greetings make it a happy time. Most of us spend time with family, and this usually strengthens family ties as we enjoy traditions that have been passed down through generations.

Of course, the holiday music is my favorite part of the season. There are so many good songs, whether they are Christmas hymns, Christmas carols, or just seasonal songs. They all tend to make me feel happy.

We sing “it’s the most wonderful time of the year;” we dream of a white Christmas; sing of a blue Christmas and even a green Christmas. We sing about Santa, and dancing snowmen (until the alligators knock him down--seriously), and flying reindeer; about silver bells and how cold it is outside. We sing about gifts we want: my two front teeth, a hippopotamus, and a little baby doll that will cry, sleep, drink and wet.

Even Christmas movies seem to be all about love, family, and peace on earth: very desirable things.

But I think that all the fun tends to distract us from what we are really celebrating at this sacred season. Today is Beethoven’s birthday, but that’s not the reason we are celebrating.

At Christmas, we celebrate the birth of a child, the baby Jesus, who came to earth to fulfill Heavenly Father’s plan for our salvation. No gift compares to that.

I am grateful to belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. When I was baptized, I covenanted to take the name of Jesus Christ upon me. As I took the sacrament with you this morning, I witnessed to Heavenly Father, along with each of you, that I am willing to take upon me the name of His Son and always remember him.

As I do this, I am identifying myself as one who seeks Christ.

We enjoy singing about those who are the best-known seekers of Christ: the Magi, or wise men. There is a great deal of Christmas mythology surrounding these men, but the fact is that we know very little of them.

Matthew tells us that they came to Herod some time after the birth of Christ, having followed a star that guided them.

We read that they asked: “Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.

“When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.”[1]

This is just my own thinking, but certainly that star was visible to everyone. Did only this group of wise foreigners notice it and realize its significance? Will we pay attention to the stars in our lives and be led by them?

After Herod’s scholars searched the scriptures, they sent the wise men to Bethlehem in Judea. Herod requested that they return and inform him of the king’s whereabouts, so that he could also worship him.

Of course, that wasn’t why Herod was seeking Jesus. He was very insecure and was concerned about this other King of the Jews taking his place.

And so we discover that the wise men found Jesus and worshiped him, and gave him gifts that were appropriate to one of royal birth: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These are not your typical baby shower gifts; they weren’t practical at all, but they were rich in symbolism.

We know that the wise men were warned not to return to report to Herod, so they took a different route home. Mary, Joseph and Jesus had to flee the country to escape Herod, and they became a refugee family for a time.

We should remember that even though Israel was in a state of apostasy at this time, there were many faithful Israelites, Jews, who knew the scriptures and were looking forward to the coming of the Messiah.

I believe that the shepherds, to whom the angel chorus appeared, were not ignorant, illiterate laborers. I think they were faithful, watchful Jews, who were aware of the prophecies and promises associated with Christ’s coming.

Having said that, let’s turn to Luke. He tells us that the shepherds said after the angelic chorus departed:

“Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

“And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

“And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

“And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.”[2]

Their words show an understanding of what was happening. Notice that they “came with haste.” This suggests that they were very much aware of what the angels’ message meant, and hurried to see for themselves. And they did not keep the experience to themselves. They made it known abroad.

All they that heard it wondered; probably because they did not hear it from those who were considered the wise and formally trained, but from common folk. This seemed to be outside the norm for them. But we know that the Lord doesn't work within man's norms.

Simeon and Anna[3] were two devout Jews who sought Jesus. They both served in the temple. Both had been promised that they would see the Messiah. When Mary and Joseph took their infant to the temple to present him to the Lord, as the law required, they recognized Jesus for who he was, the Promised Messiah for whom the Jews waited.

The scriptures tell us of many others who sought the Christ, and not just to draw near to him, but to be like him. They understood the importance of becoming his disciples.

In our day, we have been commanded to seek Christ. Of course, our covenant to take his name upon us commits us to seek him.

But in the Doctrine and Covenants, we are told:

“ye shall call upon me while I am near—

“Draw near unto me and I will draw near unto you; seek me diligently and ye shall find me; ask, and ye shall receive; knock, and it shall be opened unto you”.[4]

Please note that the Savior promises us that we shall find him. (And note that the imperative shall adds extra weight to the promise.)

In the Book of Mormon, the prophet Amaleki summarizes the core message of the Book of Mormon when he counsels:

“And now, … I would that ye should come unto Christ, who is the Holy One of Israel, and partake of his salvation, and the power of his redemption. Yea, come unto him, and offer your whole souls as an offering unto him, and continue in fasting and praying, and endure to the end; and as the Lord liveth ye will be saved”.[5]

Moroni closes the Book of Mormon with similar counsel:

“Yea, come unto Christ, and be perfected in him, and deny yourselves of all ungodliness; and if ye shall deny yourselves of all ungodliness, and love God with all your might, mind and strength, then is his grace sufficient for you, that by his grace ye may be perfect in Christ; and if by the grace of God ye are perfect in Christ, ye can in nowise deny the power of God.

“And again, if ye by the grace of God are perfect in Christ, and deny not his power, then are ye sanctified in Christ by the grace of God, through the shedding of the blood of Christ, which is in the covenant of the Father unto the remission of your sins, that ye become holy, without spot”.[6]

That is the message of the Book of Mormon, and the invitation our missionaries offer to the world: “Come unto Christ.”

At Christmas time, it is appropriate to ask: Is my Christmas celebrating helping me to come unto Christ? Do my Christmas activities demonstrate to others that I am seeking Christ?

Please understand that I am not suggesting that we abandon our beloved holiday traditions; but I am suggesting that we remember those things that give deeper meaning to our Christmas celebrations.

I believe that what people desire most at Christmastime, whether they are Christians or not, is peace and happiness. These can be very elusive in this society.

Can we give this gift to others?

Yes! Yes, and it only costs our time and commitment!

But we must first possess it ourselves. So where can we get it?

I believe, in fact I know, that the prophetic directives we received in October Conference will lead us in this direction.

As we begin our home-centered, Church-supported gospel learning journey next month, we will take personal responsibility for our own spiritual growth and development. We will put our feet on the path to discipleship, and witness through our actions that we desire to take the Savior’s name upon us and follow him.

This will be a challenging path, but the promises are many. President Nelson promised us that as we do this, it “has the potential to unleash the power of families, as each family follows through conscientiously and carefully to transform their home into a sanctuary of faith. I promise that as you diligently work to remodel [and any of you who have done remodels, is it a quick, simple process?] your home into a center of gospel learning, over time your Sabbath days will truly be a delight. Your children will be excited to learn and to live the Savior’s teachings, and the influence of the adversary in your life and in your home will decrease. Changes in your family will be dramatic and sustaining”.[7]

I don’t know exactly what “unleashing the power of families” means, but it sounds powerful, and it sounds miraculous. I hope to discover at least a portion of what that means in the coming months and years.

I do know that as we grow, we will have a positive influence on those around us. Some will desire to have the peace and joy that we will radiate. We will become more effective ministers to our friends in and out of the Church.

So how do we start?

A good starting point is to take a look back at the past year, which is something many of us do anyway as we face the New Year.

As we reflect on the old year, we would do well to ask “Have I shown the Savior through my actions that I love him?” A follow-up question could be “How can I show my love for the Savior effectively in the coming year?”

Another reflective question could be “What motivates me to follow the Savior?” Yet another question might be “How can I invite the Savior into my life this year?”

Here are many things we can consider. There is great value in reflecting as a part of the learning process. And as disciples of Christ, aren’t we always learning?

I would like to echo the words of our Prophet in suggesting four steps we can take to come unto Christ.

First, commit fully to the spirit and intent of the home-centered Church-supported curriculum. Study the New Testament with your spouse, your family, or with others. Really seek to know the Savior and to grow closer to him. Study with intent, and gospel truths will be revealed to you.

Second, prayerfully seek ways to be a more effective ministering brother or sister. As we seek to serve as the Savior did, we will become more like him. The Lord expects us to seek revelation as we strive to minister.

Third, spend time in the temple. Visiting the House of the Lord will enable us to receive revelation and power from him as we serve there. President Nelson said that our need to be in the temple has never been greater.

Fourth, use the correct name of the Church. Now more than ever, we need to stand up and be counted as followers of Christ.

President Nelson said “I promise that if we will do our best to restore the correct name of the Lord's church, He whose church this is will pour down His power and His blessings upon the heads of the Latter-day Saints, the likes of which we have never seen”.[8]

Of course, there are also many other ways we can come unto Christ.

But now, let us enjoy the Christmas season. Let us relish the peace and happiness that come as we celebrate the birth of our Savior.

Let us also remember that he entered into mortality just as we did. Abinadi testified that he “should come down among the children of men, and take upon him flesh and blood, and go forth upon the face of the earth.”[9]

May we stand all amazed as we consider the life and mission of our Savior Jesus Christ, and recommit to follow him, and may we let our lights shine before men that they may glorify not us, but our Heavenly Father, who sent his Son that we might live and enjoy the blessings of his eternal plan.

I testify that Christ lives, and that he is our loving Redeemer and Savior. He ransomed us from our sins to empower us to return to Heavenly Father’s presence, if we will be true to our covenants. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

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[1] KJV, Matthew 2:2-3, ff.

[2] KJV, Luke 2:15-18.

[3] KJV, Luke 2:25-38.

[4] Doctrine and Covenants 88:62-63.

[5] The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ; Omni 1:26.

[6] The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ; Moroni 10:32-33.

[7] Nelson, RM; Becoming Exemplary Latter-day Saints; October 2018 General Conference. Parenthetical note mine.

[8] Nelson, RM; Revelation for the Church, Revelation for Our Lives: April 2018 General Conference.

[9] The Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ; Mosiah 7:27.