Getting Ready for Christmas
by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf
As an old tradition, our family has always celebrated the Advent
of Christmas. Starting on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, we would
get together on Sunday afternoons, light wax candles on a pine Advent
wreath, enjoy delicious homemade cookies, and read passages of
scriptures that center on the Christ.
We
read accounts of ancient prophets who yearned for the coming of the
Messiah. We read scriptures that proclaim the wondrous story of His
birth. Each week by singing beautiful Christmas songs and having a fun
time together, our family tried to refocus on the true meaning of the
season. I must admit that delicious hot chocolate, hot apple cider, and
tasty homemade cookies helped a lot to catch the joyful feeling of the
Christmas season!
While
celebrating the Advent of Christmas is not part of all cultures around
the globe, there is something we can learn from this widespread
Christian tradition. Perhaps even this year we might carve from our busy
schedules some time to study and reflect on the true meaning of
Christmas—personally and as families.
When
we prepare for Christmas by pondering its real meaning, we prepare to
experience the Christ and His message. May I suggest three things we may
want to study, ponder, and apply in this season of preparation.
First, rejoice in the birth of our Savior.
Second, ponder His influence in our lives today.
Third, look steadfastly for His coming.
I pray that each and every one of you will have a wonderful and merry Christmas season.
The word Advent means “the coming of Christ.” In Germany, where President Uchtdorf grew up, many families celebrate Advent for four weeks before Christmas.
