Celebrating Christmas
Every December, Christmas shows up wrapped in lights, music, family plans, and expectations. We decorate our homes, plan meals, buy gifts, and try to create moments that feel meaningful. None of that is bad. Much of it is good. I’ve always loved this season. But it’s easy for all of it to become the focus instead of the reason behind it.
At its core, Christmas is about the birth of Jesus Christ.
As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God, the Savior of the world, and the central figure of God’s plan for His children. His birth matters not because of the date on the calendar, but because of who He is and what He came to do.
Historically, Jesus was not born on December 25. That date came centuries later and was influenced by existing winter solstice celebrations. Same as the Christmas tree, wreaths, Santa and his reindeer, and other holiday traditions. Some people see that as a problem, but it really isn’t. The scriptures never place importance on the exact day, and the cultural additions are fun and harmless. What matters is the miracle of the incarnation: that Jehovah, the Creator of heaven and earth, came to earth as a child, born to Mary in humble circumstances.
The Savior’s birth reminds us of God’s pattern. He works quietly. He values humility. He enters our lives not through spectacle, but through invitation. He comforts and directs us through the still, small voice of the Holy Ghost.
That truth can be easy to overlook during a season filled with noise and expectation. Christmas often pulls us toward excess. All we think about are the gifts, the decorations, and the pressure to create a perfect experience for friends and family. When that happens, we may find ourselves tired or distracted, even while celebrating something sacred.
The birth of Jesus Christ points us in a different direction. It invites us to slow down, to remember, and to turn our hearts toward Him. It reminds us that peace doesn’t come from having more, but from drawing closer to the Savior through faith, gratitude, and service.
So enjoy the traditions. Share the meals. Give gifts generously. These things can reflect love when they’re rooted in the right place. Just don’t miss the point.
Christmas is not about getting everything right. It’s about remembering the greatest gift God has ever given and letting that gift change us, not just in December, but throughout the year.
Merry Christmas!
