Witnesses of the First Christmas, and Book Review

Do you realize how many witnesses announced the birth of Christ? 

In honor of the true spirit of Christmas, I want to share a timely insight gained from my wonderful brother's wonderful book, Our Savior Jesus Messiah, Vol. 1 by Bryan Young Weight. The chapter entitled Events At Birth starts: "The Law of witnesses requires two or more testimonies before truth is established..." He explains how the following are all witnesses that God the Father announced the birth of His Holy Son:

• Angels. Not only did an angel proclaim to the shepherds, a group of heavenly hosts shouted "Hosanna!"
• Shepherds. The selected shepherds shared their new knowledge abroad.
• Temple witnesses. The Holy infant was recognized by Simeon and Anna at the temple.
• The Star. A new star shown as a sign and a witness.
• Wise Men. The wise men came to worship the King of the Jews.
• Scripture. Prophets foretold and four disciples retold the birth of Christ, recorded in scripture. Bryan uses scriptures for each of the above examples.

  

Here is my review: I loved this bargain-priced book and gained some new insights from reading it. The book is well-written, with logical content supported by multiple scripture sources and the perfect study for daily scripture time, for anyone of any religion who is confused about Jesus or the Messiah, and a useful companion to LDS Gospel Doctrine lessons. I highly recommend it and look forward to the next volumes coming out in 2015. I gave it 5 stars. 
Learn more insights and proofs of how Jesus Christ is our Savior and Messiah in this inspirational work. Find out more on www.JesusMessiah.net
Merry Christmas, everyone!

Bearing Gifts Year Round

I found a great yearlong quote that holds added meaning at Christmas.
"Each day comes bearing Gifts. Untie the ribbons...." - Ann Ruth Schabacker
Do we look at each day with the same anticipation a child does when seeing presents under a Christmas tree? Granted, Christmas is a special time for both the reason we celebrate and the fact that it only comes yearly. But our participation also makes it magical and gets us in the proper mood.
It is my hope that we can look forward to each day's writing time with the expectation that magic will unfold if we simply untie whatever holds us back. The gifts are there, waiting. Even if you end up rewriting most of it, you have created something no one else has, and in the process, there is likely a magical phrase or two that are keepers. Put those efforts together and someday you can bear your gift to others.
Happy writing and Merry Christmas!

Getting into the Christmas Spirit - A Christmas Memory

Happy December and Merry Christmas everyone!

Today I find myself wedged between déjà vu and looking forward to the future as I contemplate getting into the Christmas Spirit. You see, I don’t plan to hang decorations—they’re all packed away in a far away place. It reminds me of years ago when we moved the week before Christmas. Similar circumstances again. I struggled that year to feel the Christmas Spirit. Shopping or playing Christmas CDs didn't do it for me. It wasn't until I attended a live program of Christmas music with performers decked in red and green that my heart absorbed my surroundings. The music came from singers whose faces showed they loved performing. We connected, like a gift from them to me. They were serving me and they loved doing it. My heart was touched and I dare guess that theirs were too.

What is it that makes it feel like Christmas? It may be something different to each of us. I love music, but it wasn't just the music. Music was combined with love and service through messages about Christ's birth, attended by friends and family. Add them together and you get the same answers I found on mormon.org/Christmas focusing on Service, Love, Jesus Christ, Family. Visit the site for Christmas messages and a nativity video, download some Christmas music, or join the conversation about what the season means to you. I recommend it as part of getting into the Christmas Spirit. What gets you in the seasonal mood?