As the First Presidency’s Christmas Devotional came to a close, viewers walked away inspired — not only to celebrate the season, but to make meaningful changes in their lives.
Each of the four talks was impactful to viewers both in the Conference Center and at home. Sister Tamara W. Runia, the first counselor in the Young Women General Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, spoke about how followers of Christ are the Savior’s sheep and He knows them by name.
“Tonight, I submit that we are all injured lambs in need of the Good Shepherd, who will cradle us in the arms of his love,” Sister Runia said.
“I think a lot of times we're quick to judge,” said Kam Schnider, who attended the devotional with her family. “When someone is in a bad mood, we snap at them, or when we get angry when we're driving or whatever the circumstance. Maybe just take a breath and take a moment to think. Maybe they're going through something, and Christ knows them by name too.”
This message was echoed by President Dallin H. Oaks, the first counselor in the First Presidency, as he invited everyone to show good will toward men through actions of love and friendship.
“’Peace, good will toward men’ is not just a message for those for whom we already have feelings of love and affection such as fellow citizens of our church, our nation, residents of our hometown, or neighborhood, or people of common culture. The heavenly hosts proclaimed good will to all men — to casual friends, to strangers, even to enemies,” President Oaks said.
“I just really liked when they were just saying how important it is that we need to be friendly and a good example for others, and I just think that's so important so I'm just going to try my hardest to start doing that,” said Lauren Broschinsky, who watched the devotional with her dad.
Most of all, the devotional helped people refocus on Christ and the true reason for celebrating Christmas.
“I learned about how Christmas should be different than any other part of the year and that we really need to focus on Jesus Christ,” said Conner Moses, who accompanied his girlfriend to watch.
The devotional is available to watch on YouTube and churchofjesuschrist.org.