Christmas Eve Nativity

 After watching some church movies about the nativity we acted it out on our own.  Having only 6 people in our family we had to play multiple parts.  There may have been some irreverent laughing or goofiness, but I love that we spent an hour or so as a family talking about the real meaning of Christmas.  We talked about what gifts we would give Jesus this year and how we will come closer to Christ.  I am so thankful for my testimony of Jesus Christ.  I know that I would not be the woman I am today with Him.  I am thankful for the many opportunities I have daily to show that I am a disciple of Him whose birth we celebrate in such splendor.  I am so thankful for a loving Heavenly Father who gave His son as a gift to each one of us so that we could all return home someday.  I am so thankful for the gift of the Atonement that I am learning how to apply in my life more every day.  I know that Jesus Christ was born to Mary and Joseph in a manger over 2000 years ago.  I know that He atoned for my sins, my suffering and yours.  I know that I will be forgiven for all I do as I repent and come to know my Savior more and more.  I am so thankful for the extra emphasis on Him at this time of year, but I am more thankful for His presence in my life all year long.

Luke 2

 1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Cæsar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

 2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

 3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judæa, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

 5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

 6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

 8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

 9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

 10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

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

 12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

 14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

 15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

 16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

 17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

 18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

 19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.

 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.