the reality of christmas

art by walter rane

The reality of Christmas is that - setting all presents and music and memories and parties aside - we are celebrating the most significant day in the history of the world.

"For unto you is born this day, in the city of David, a Savior, which is Christ the Lord."

After all is said and done, it's a beautiful and peaceful thing to sit back and remember why do this every year. The quiet moment when you are looking into the lights on the Christmas tree and thinking, i cannot believe this is all real.

It's unbelievable, isn't it? The fact that Christ is a real person, who was born here to save us. Each one of us. So unbelievable. Thank goodness we have Santa Clause to strengthen our belief system... :)

But honestly and truly, I was walking around Temple Square in Salt Lake City on Tuesday night, and as I watched a small portion of the Nativity scene, I couldn't help but have a moment of thinking - This REALLY happened. These things are true. Christ the Lord was born that day. Choirs of angels sang for Him. Shepherds came to Him. He was born in a manger.

The awesomeness of this story never ceases to amaze me. And the love of our Savior is even more amazing.

The fact that he came here. Even for me, just a girl, to take care of me. To show His love for me. 

For each one of us individually.

It's amazing, inspiring, wonderful, beautiful, and yes, unbelievable.

But this is something I don't just believe.

I know it.

I know it with all my still beating heart. And that knowledge is something that carries me through each day. The fact that someone up there loves me and would die for me. That no matter what happens, I am never alone.

And that is the true reason I celebrate Christmas.

everything i know for sure.

I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the only true church on the earth. I know that I have a Heavenly Father who loves me, and wants to see me again. I know that Jesus Christ atoned for my sins, and felt everything I feel every day. I know that he did this because he loves me, and he also wants to see me again. I know that because of the plan, I can be with my family forever. I know that temples were put on this earth for us to be closer to God, and so that we can have the opportunity to do work for the dead. I know that the organization of the church is divine, and that we have the commandments and standards that we do so that we can be the best person possible. I know that our prophets and apostles have been called of God to lead and guide us throughout our lives. I know that Joseph Smith saw Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ, and they helped him understand the fullness of the gospel so that it could be restored for all of us today. I know that the Book of Mormon is a true book. I know that it is another testament of Jesus Christ, and many valuable lessons can be learned from reading it. I know that I can receive personal revelation through reading my scriptures. I know that when I pray, Heavenly Father is listening to me. I know I can get answers if I seek them out, and ask for help. I know that I am here for a reason, that Heavenly Father has sent me here at this time because I have a purpose to fulfill. I know that happiness comes from this gospel, and I know that I am blessed every moment of every day because of this knowledge. I know.

p.s. there's something about serving people that is just wonderful.