It is our prayer for you and your family that you will partake of the Love and Peace that Jesus has to give us – Practice Peace and Proclaim Peace Always.
Here are two heartfelt thoughts on Christmas – first, by President Dallin H. Oaks, and second, by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.
The Prince of Peace
By President Dallin H. Oaks
First Counselor in the First Presidency – December 2024
At this Christmas season, the world celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ, the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). We think about His birth, His life, and His mission. In His final instructions to His Apostles, Jesus Christ said, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).
Peace is our Savior’s promise, and peace is our goal. As we keep the commandments of God, we can feel that peace.
As we celebrate this Christmas, it is my hope that you will be blessed with peace in your heart and love for those around you.
Sharing the Savior’s Peace
You can share the love and peace of Jesus Christ! For 12 days leading up to Christmas, choose an activity to do with your family. Then color in an ornament.
- Do a secret act of service.
- Call a friend or family member who lives far away.
- Share a favorite snack or treat.
- Share the Friend with a friend.
- Draw a picture to give to someone.
- Sing a Christmas song together.
- Read a scripture about Jesus.
- Visit someone who is lonely.
- Send a Christmas card to a missionary.
- Read a Christmas story together.
- (Write your own)
- (Write your own)
Next – I heard the Bells of Christmas Day – Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote this poem on Christmas Day in 1863. Longfellow was in deep despair, having lost his wife and his son, who was severely wounded in the war. His heart was broken. We all experience loss, and we all get depressed, but as Longfellow found when he heard the Bells- well, read his poem.
I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day
By Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1807–1882
I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old familiar carols play;
In music sweet the tones repeat,
“There’s peace on earth, good will to men.”
I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along th’ unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.
And in despair I bowed my head:
“There is no peace on earth,” I said,
“For hate is strong, and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.”
Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
“God is not dead, nor does He sleep,
For Christ is here; His Spirit near
Brings peace on earth, good will to men.”
When men repent and turn from sin
The Prince of Peace then enters in,
And grace imparts within their hearts.
His peace on earth, good will to men.
O souls amid earth’s busy strife,
The Word of God is light and life;
Oh, hear His voice, make Him your choice,
Hail peace on earth, good will to men.
Then happy, singing on your way,
Your world will change from night to day;
Your heart will feel the message real,
Of peace on earth, good will to men.