Preparing for Christmas on Each of the Days of December (updated 12/8/21)
Taken from Good Tidings of Great Joy, Appendix B, pp. 143-147.

Also read "Glad Tidings of Great Joy," Ensign (December 2010), and listen to "Advent with Eric Huntsman," In Good Faith, Season 3, Episode 62, December 8, 2019.

See also our family's suggestion for a weekly Advent celebration on each of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas and any of the following links:

In 1998 our family began the practice of taking time each day from December 1 to 24 for a short Christmas devotional. The previous year, one of my aunts gave us a small booklet for Christmas that provided a scripture, a carol, and a Christmas story for each of the days leading up to Christmas. In addition to our weekly observance of Advent, this practice of holding a daily devotional has become quite a tradition for us as each evening we gather in the living room, light the candles of our Advent wreath, and then read a story together, recite a scripture passage, and finally sing a carol before we join in family prayer. Our children have taken to calling this routine “doing Christmas,” which is fitting, because our tradition has helped us focus on the true meaning of Christmas during the entire month.

Over the years we have developed and altered our Christmas Season Book, printing it and keeping it in a three ring binder so that we can change it from time to time. My first change was to make a new selection of scriptures, drawing them from the Latter-day Saint standard works and arranging them in rough chronological order to show how God revealed the good news of the coming of his Son, beginning with Adam and culminating with the annunciations to Mary and Joseph. I have provided the text for each day’s reading below together with a brief introduction describing who made the prophecy. These scriptural readings form the heart of each day’s devotional.

Sometimes the carol suggestions match the scripture readings for the day, such as matching “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming” with the reading of the account of the Annunciation to Mary on December 20. More often than not, however, I have simply tried to see that a wide variety of Christmas songs, including a few from the Children’s Songbook of the Latter-day Saint Primary, are sung. Many of the carols can be found in the Hymnbook, but a few of the less common ones can be found in collections such as The Christmas Songbook Treasury, 100 Carols for Choirs, or The New Oxford Book of Carols.

Ideas of what makes a good story vary widely, and we continue to change our own from year to year. So for this Resource Guide, I have for the most part only included the titles of some of our current favorites, sometimes with brief annotation. For copyright reasons, I have reproduced few of these stories here, but the texts of most of them can be found on the Web or in commercial collections. On this blog version of my Family Resource Guide, I am providing web links as I find them. However, families may want to make their own lists of stories based upon their preferences or what they have readily available.

Although we usually end our devotionals with our Christmas Eve celebration, I have suggested below a few readings that can be done after Christmas to help connect the Christmas season with the Gospels and look forward toward Easter.

Links and Jumps

Advent Posts

Daily Devotionals for December

December 1

Suggested Story: O. Henry, “The Gift of the Magi.” This well-known story of a young, poor couple’s love for each other is a nice way to begin the season as we start thinking of getting or making our own gifts for each other. We frequently shorten or summarize it for our children.

The words of Enoch, which he preached recalling the promises that God made to Adam:

“And he called upon our father Adam by his own voice, saying: ‘I am God; I made the world, and men before they were in the flesh.’ And he also said unto him: ‘If thou wilt turn unto me, and hearken unto my voice, and believe, and repent of all thy transgressions, and be baptized, even in water, in the name of mine Only Begotten Son, who is full of grace and truth, which is Jesus Christ, the only name which shall be given under heaven, whereby salvation shall come unto the children of men . . .

“‘Wherefore teach it unto your children, that all men, everywhere, must repent, or they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God, for no unclean thing can dwell there, or dwell in his presence; for, in the language of Adam, Man of Holiness is his name, and the name of his Only Begotten is the Son of Man, even Jesus Christ, a righteous Judge, who shallcome in the meridian of time.’” (Moses 6:51–52, 57)

Suggested Carol: “Angels We Have Heard on High,” Hymns, no. 203.

December 2

Suggested Story: “On the Symbolism of Christmas” from “The Sixth Word” by Sherry Dillehay, Especially for Mormons, Vol. 2. This, or a story like it, can serve as a good vehicle for helping children understand the symbolism of so many of our Christmas decorations.

Words of God to Moses about his Only Begotten:

“And I have a work for thee, Moses, my son; and thou art in the similitude of mine Only Begotten; and mine Only Begotten is and shall be the Savior, for he is full of grace and truth; but there is no God beside me, and all things are present with me, for I know them all . . . And worlds without number have I created; and I also created them for mine own purpose; and by the Son I created them, which is mine Only Begotten . . . For behold, this is my work and my glory—to bring to pass the immortality and eternal life of man.” (Moses 1:6, 33, 39)

A Prophecy of Moses, which he made to the Children of Israel:

“The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken.” (Deuteronomy 18:15)

Suggested Carol: “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” Hymns, no. 202.

December 3

Suggested Story: “A Different Kind of Christmas” by Lael J. Littke. This touching story is set in Pioneer-era Utah and describes the love that a mother who has lost her daughters develops for her foster son.

The covenant of the Lord, which he made with David:

“ . . . I will set up thy seed after thee, which shall proceed out of thy bowels, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build an house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom for ever. I will be his father, and he shall be my son.” (2 Samuel 7:12–14)

“I have made a covenant with my chosen,

I have sworn unto David my servant,

Thy seed will I establish for ever,

and build up thy throne to all generations.

“My mercy will I keep for him for evermore,

and my covenant shall stand fast with him.

His seed also will I make to endure for ever,

and his throne as the days of heaven.

“His seed shall endure for ever,

and his throne as the sun before me.

It shall be established for ever as the moon,

and as a faithful witness in heaven” (Psalm 89:3–4, 28–29, 36–37)

Suggested Carol: “Once In David’s Royal City,” Hymns, no. 205.

December 4

A psalm attributed to David:

“Lift up your heads, O ye gates;

even lift them up, ye everlasting doors;

and the King of glory shall come in.

“Who is this King of glory?

The Lord of hosts,

he is the King of glory.” (Psalm 24:9–10)

Suggested Carol: “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night,” Hymns, no. 211.

December 5

Suggested Story: “It Takes a Child” by Nancy L. Dahlberg. In this story a homeless man teaches a mother about unconditional love.

It Takes A Child. Holiday Stories and Poems, The Great American Craft Show: Although the magazine that originally printed the story is no longer in business, the publisher has given permission to reprint the following shortened version. This is a first-person account from a mother about her family as they ate dinner on Christmas Day in a small restaurant many miles from their home. Nancy, the mother, relates:

We were the only family with children in the restaurant. I sat Erik in a high chair and noticed everyone was quietly eating and talking. Suddenly, Erik squealed with glee and said, “Hi there.” He pounded his fat baby hands on the highchair tray. His eyes were wide with excitement and his mouth was bared in a toothless grin. He wriggled and giggled with merriment. I looked around and saw the source of his merriment. It was a man with a tattered rag of a coat; dirty, greasy and worn. His pants were baggy with a zipper at half-mast and his toes poked out of would-be shoes. His shirt was dirty and his hair was uncombed and unwashed. His whiskers were too short to be called a beard and his nose was so varicose it looked like a road map. We were too far from him to smell, but I was sure he smelled. His hands waved and flapped on loose wrists. “Hi there, baby; hi there, big boy. I see ya, buster,” the man said to Erik. My husband and I exchanged looks, “What do we do?”

Erik continued to laugh and answer, “Hi, hi there.” Everyone in the restaurant noticed and looked at us and then at the man. The old geezer was creating a nuisance with my beautiful baby.

Our meal came and the man began shouting from across the room, “Do ya know patty cake? Do you know peek-a-boo? Hey, look, he knows peek-a-boo.” Nobody thought the old man was cute. He was obviously drunk. My husband and I were embarrassed. We ate in silence; all except for Erik, who was running through his repertoire for the admiring skid-row bum, who in turn, reciprocated with his cute comments. We finally got through the meal and headed for the door.

My husband went to pay the check and told me to meet him in the parking lot. The old man sat poised between me and the door. “Lord, just let me out of here before he speaks to me or Erik,” I prayed. As I drew closer to the man, I turned my back trying to sidestep him and avoid any air he might be breathing. As I did, Erik leaned over my arm, reaching with both arms in a baby’s “pick-me-up” position. Before I could stop him, Erik had propelled himself from my arms to the man’s.

Suddenly a very old smelly man and a very young baby fell into each others' arms. Erik in an act of total trust, love, and submission laid his tiny head upon the man’s ragged shoulder. The man’s eyes closed, and I saw tears hover beneath his lashes. His aged hands full of grime, pain, and hard labor—gently, so gently, cradled my baby’s bottom and stroked his back.

No two beings have ever loved so deeply for so short a time! I stood awestruck. The old man rocked and cradled Erik in his arms for a moment, then his eyes opened and set squarely on mine. He said in a firm commanding voice, “You take care of this baby.” Somehow I managed, “I will,” from a throat that contained a stone. He pried Erik from his chest—unwillingly, longingly, as though he were in pain. I received my baby, and the man said, “God bless you, ma’am, you’ve given me my Christmas gift.” I said nothing more than a muttered thanks. With Erik in my arms, I ran for the car.

My husband was wondering why I was crying and holding Erik so tightly, and why I was saying, “My God, my God, forgive me.”

I had just witnessed Christ’s love shown through the innocence of a tiny child who saw no sin, who made no judgment; a child who saw a soul, a mother who saw a suit of clothes. I was a Christian who was blind, holding a child who was not. I felt it was God asking, “Are you willing to share your son for a moment?” —when He shared His for all eternity. The ragged old man, unwittingly, had reminded me, “To enter the Kingdom of God, we must become as little children.”

A prophecy of Isaiah:

“Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign;

Behold, a virgin shall conceive,

and bear a son,

and shall call his name Immanuel.” (Isaiah 7:14)

“ . . . Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, ‘God with us.’” (Matthew 1:23b)

Suggested Carol: “The First Noel,” Hymns, no. 213.

December 6

Suggested Story: “Christmas Day in the Morning” by Pearl S. Buck. Later in life, a man reflects about the first, true Christmas gift he ever gave.

A prophecy of Isaiah:

“For unto us a child is born,

unto us a son is given:

and the government shall be upon his shoulder:

and his name shall be called Wonderful Counsellor,

The mighty God,

The everlasting Father,

The Prince of Peace.

Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end,

upon the throne of David,

and upon his kingdom, to order it,

and to establish it with judgment and with justice

from henceforth even for ever.” (Isaiah 9:6–7a)

Suggested Carol: “Joy to the World,” Hymns, no. 201.

December 7

Suggested Story: “Now I Understand, Now I See Why,” also known as “The Parable of the Birds,” by Louis Cassels

A prophecy of Isaiah:

“And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse,

and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:

And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him,

the spirit of wisdom and understanding,

the spirit of counsel and might,

the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord ;

And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the Lord

and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes,

neither reprove after the hearing of his ears:

But with righteousness shall he judge the poor,

and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth . . .” (Isaiah 11:1–4a)

Suggested Carol: “It Came upon a Midnight Clear,” Hymns, no. 207.

December 8

Suggested Story: "A Brother Like That" by Don Clark

A Prophecy of Isaiah:

“Comfort ye, comfort ye my people,

saith your God.

Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem,

and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished,

that her iniquity is pardoned:

for she hath received of the Lord’s hand double for all her sins.

The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness,

‘Prepare ye the way of the Lord,

make straight in the desert a highway for our God.’

Every valley shall be exalted,

and every mountain and hill shall be made low:

and the crooked shall be made straight,

and the rough places plain:

And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed,

and all flesh shall see it together:

for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it.” (Isaiah 40:1–5)

Suggested Carol: “Hark, The Herald Angels Sing,” Hymns, no. 209.

December 9

Suggested Story: “Mr. Jinks Hands Out the Holly,” The Children’s Friend, December 1958

The words of Micah regarding where the Messiah would be born:

“But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah,

though thou be little among the thousands of Judah,

yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me

that is to be ruler in Israel;

whose goings forth have been from of old,

from everlasting.” (Micah 5:2)

Suggested Carol: “O Little Town of Bethlehem,” Hymns, no. 208.

December 10

Suggested Story: “Keeping Baby Warm” by Lynda H. Laughlin

Suggested Reading: “A Christmas Prayer” by Robert Lewis Stevenson

A prophecy of Jeremiah:

“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord,

that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch,

and a King shall reign and prosper,

and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.

In his days Judah shall be saved,

and Israel shall dwell safely:

and this is his name whereby he shall be called,

the Lord Our Righteousness.”

(Jeremiah 23:5–6; cf. 33:14–15)

Suggested Carol: “Far, Far Away on Judea’s Plains,” Hymns, no. 212. This carol was written by Latter-day Saint composer John Menzies MacFarlane (1833–1892).

December 11

Suggested Story: “The Christmas Room” by Gillette Jones

Nephi, writing of the words of Lehi, which he gave to his family while traveling in the wilderness:

“Yea, even six hundred years from the time that my father left Jerusalem, a prophet would the Lord God raise up among the Jews—even a Messiah, or, in other words, a Savior of the world. And he also spake concerning the prophets, how great a number had testified of these things, concerning this Messiah, of whom he had spoken, or this Redeemer of the world.” (1 Nephi 10:4–5)

Suggested Carol: “God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen,” 100 Carols for Choirs, no. 19.

God rest ye merry, gentlemen, let nothing you dismay,
Remember Christ our Savior was born on Christmas Day;
To save us all from Satan’s power when we were gone astray.
O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy;
O tidings of comfort and joy.

In Bethlehem, in Israel, this blessèd Babe was born,
And laid within a manger upon this blessèd morn;
The which His mother Mary did nothing take in scorn.
O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy;
O tidings of comfort and joy.

From God our heavenly Father a blessèd angel came;
And unto certain shepherds brought tidings of the same;
How that in Bethlehem was born the Son of God by name.
O tidings of comfort and joy, comfort and joy;
O tidings of comfort and joy.

December 12

Suggested Story: "The C-C-Choir Boy" by Fred Bauer. A boy with a stutter finds he can sing a solo in his school pageant if he only keeps his thoughts on the baby Jesus.

From the vision of Nephi, the son of Lehi:

“And it came to pass that I looked and beheld the great city of Jerusalem, and also other cities. And I beheld the city of Nazareth; and in the city of Nazareth I beheld a virgin, and she was exceedingly fair and white.

“And it came to pass that I saw the heavens open; and an angel came down and stood before me; and he said unto me: ‘Nephi, what beholdest thou?’ And I said unto him: ‘A virgin, most beautiful and fair above all other virgins.’ Ad he said unto me: ‘Knowest thou the condescension of God?’ And I said unto him: I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things. And he said unto me: ‘Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God, after the manner of the flesh.’

“And it came to pass that I beheld that she was carried away in the Spirit; and after she had been carried away in the Spirit for the space of a time the angel spake unto me, saying: ‘Look!’ And I looked and beheld the virgin again, bearing a child in her arms. And the angel said unto me: ‘Behold the Lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father!’” (1 Nephi 11:13–21a)

Suggested Carol: “What Child Is This?” The New Oxford Book of Carols, no. 98. or Hymns for Home and Church, no. 1203.

What Child is this who, laid to rest
On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom Angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and Angels sing;
Haste, haste, to bring Him laud,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Why lies He in such mean estate,
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christians, fear, for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.
Nails, spear shall pierce Him through,
The cross be borne for me, for you.
Hail, hail the Word made flesh,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh,
Come peasant, king to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings,
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.
Raise, raise a song on high,
The virgin sings her lullaby.
Joy, joy for Christ is born,
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

December 13

Suggested Story: “Bethann’s Christmas Prayer” by Marilyn Morgan Helleberg. A young girl melts the heart of a sad, older woman who has suffered a terrible loss.

The words of Nephi, the son of Lehi, toward the end of his record:

“For according to the words of the prophets, the Messiah cometh in six hundred years from the time that my father left Jerusalem; and according to the words of the prophets, and also the word of the angel of God, his name shall be Jesus Christ, the Son of God . . . And we talk of Christ, we rejoice in Christ, we preach of Christ, we prophesy of Christ, and we write according to our prophecies, that our children may know to what source they may look for a remission of their sins.” (2 Nephi 25:19, 26)

Suggested Carol: “O Holy Night,” The Christmas Songbook Treasury, 68, or entry on Hymnary.org.

O Holy night, the stars are brightly shining
It is the night of the dear Saviour’s birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
Till He appeared and the soul felt His worth
A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices
For yonder beams a new and glorious morn

Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine! O night when Christ was born!
O night divine! O night, O night divine!

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here come the wise men from Orient land.
The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friend.

He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger.
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!

Truly he taught us to love one another
His law is love and His gospel is peace
Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother
And in His name all oppression shall cease
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus rise we
Let all within us praise His holy name

Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we!
His pow’r and glory ever more proclaim!
His pow’r and glory ever more proclaim!

December 14

Suggested Story: “Pattern of Love” by Jack Smith

The words of Jacob, the son of Lehi, to the people at the temple in the Land of Nephi:

“For, for this intent have we written these things, that they may know that we knew of Christ, and we had a hope of his glory many hundred years before his coming; and not only we ourselves had a hope of his glory, but also all the holy prophets which were before us. Behold, they believed in Christ and worshiped the Father in his name, and also we worship the Father in his name. . .” (Jacob 4:4–5a)

Suggested Carol: “Bring a Torch Jeanette Isabella,” The Christmas Songbook Treasury, 59.

Bring a torch, Jeanette, Isabella
Bring a torch, to the cradle run!
It is Jesus, good folk of the village;
Christ is born and Mary’s calling;
Ah! ah! beautiful is the Mother
Ah! ah! beautiful is her Son!

It is wrong when the Child is sleeping
It is wrong to talk so loud;
Silence, all, as you gather around.
Lest your noise should waken Jesus.
Hush! hush! see how fast He slumbers!
Hush! hush! see how fast He sleeps!

Hasten now, good folk of the village;
Hasten now the Christ Child to see.
You will find Him asleep in the manger;
Quietly come and whisper softly,
Hush! hush! Peacefully now He slumbers.
Hush! hush! Peacefully now He sleeps.

Softly to the little stable.
Softly for a moment come;
Look and see how charming is Jesus
How He is white, His cheeks are rosy!
Hush! hush! see how the Child is sleeping;
Hush! hush! see how He smiles in his dreams.

Bring a torch, Jeanette, Isabella;
Bring a torch, come swiftly and run.
Christ is born, tell the folk of the village;
Jesus is sleeping in His cradle.
Ah, ah, beautiful is the Mother;
Ah, ah, beautiful is her Son.

December 15

Story for December 15: "In Another Stable" by David Niven. This story is written by David Niven, a famous actor from years ago who appeared in more than sixty movies. First printed Guideposts, 1963.

It took place on Christmas Eve 1939. I had just arrived in England from Hollywood to volunteer for the British Army. Having had some previous military experience, I was commissioned a second lieutenant and given command of a platoon. We were about to be sent to France, and no one was very happy about it. Most of the men had been conscripted from good civilian jobs; this was the “phony war” period before the big German attack of the following spring, and it all seemed a big waste of time to most of them.

Being commanded by a Hollywood actor was an additional irritant for them and made the whole thing seem even more ridiculous. The men were not mutinous, but they were certainly forty of the least well-disposed characters I ever have been associated with, let alone been in command of.

We were not permitted liberty on that Christmas Eve because we were due to leave England and our families the next day—a fine prospect for the holidays. The entire platoon was billeted in the shabby stables of a farm near Dover.

I could sense the hostility in every soldier. The air was thick with sarcastic cracks about my bravery in various motion pictures.

It so happens that every night of my life I have knelt down by my bed and said a simple prayer. But that night I was faced with a difficult decision. If I suddenly knelt in prayer, here in front of these men, it occurred to me that forty tough soldiers would take it as a final evidence of Hollywood flamboyance.
On the other hand, I have always felt it wrong to avoid saying my prayers because the situation was not convenient. Besides, here it was the eve of Christ's birth.

Finally I summoned up my courage and knelt by my bunk. As I prayed there was some snickering at first, but it soon died away.

When I finished and lay down on the straw, I looked rather sheepishly around the stable and saw at least a dozen soldiers kneeling quietly and praying in their own way.

It was not the first time God had entered a stable—and touched the hearts

The testimony of Jacob, the son of Lehi, to Sherem:

“ . . . Behold, I say unto you that none of the prophets have written, nor prophesied, save they have spoken concerning this Christ. And this is not all—it has been made manifest unto me, for I have heard and seen; and it also has been made manifest unto me by the power of the Holy Ghost; wherefore, I know if there should be no atonement made all mankind must be lost.” (Jacob 7:11–12)

Suggested Carol: “Joy to the World”

December 16

Suggested Story: "Special Delivery" by Mrs. Charles Stephan

Delivery boys come in all shapes and sizes—and in a variety of speeds and attitudes, too. Some come to the door like beleaguered deliverers of doom while others come on the bound, as though there were more rewards to work than the pay.

David Ward, of Memphis, Tennessee, is the latter kind. Weekdays after school and Saturdays, David pedals his bike for the Speedway Drug Store. And David’s a good sort for the job. When he delivers a prescription and says, “I hope you’re feeling better,” in that polite, concerned way of his, somehow you do feel better.

Last year on a Saturday night before Christmas, David, who was thirteen then, received his weekly salary as usual. But he didn’t go home. He had a special delivery of his own to make.

First he went down to the lot where the Christmas trees were being sold. When he’d given a number of the trees his careful inspection, he bought one and loaded it on his bicycle. Then he wheeled it over to 605 Life-Street, the home of a steady customer, Mrs. Brady Neals. She was seventy-one. And she had been blind for thirty-seven years.

“It’s me, Mrs. Neals, David from Speedway,” he said when she came to the door. And then David walked in and set up the tree and talked cheerily as he trimmed it with the lights and decorations he had brought along.

Mrs. Neals could hardly speak. Even as David was leaving she could only mumble her thanks.

But the old lady was thrilled, she kept reaching out to touch the tree’s branches and to breathe its forest-fresh fragrance. “I’m seventy-one years old,” she kept saying over and over, “I’m seventy-one years old, and I’ve never had a tree.”

Delivery boys come in all shapes and sizes, and some of them bring more to their jobs than work.

The words of Malachi:

“Behold, I will send my messenger,

and he shall prepare the way before me:

and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple,

even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in:

behold, he shall come, saith the Lord of hosts.” (Malachi 3:1)

Suggested Carol: “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day,” Hymns, no. 214.

Beginning with December 17, I am including the traditional "O Antiphons" (see my blog post "Awaiting the Messiah") with the final days leading up to Christmas Eve.

December 17

O Sapientia.

O Wisdom, who didst issue out of the mouth of the most High, and dost reach from one end of the world to the other, mightily and sweetly ordering all things: Come and teach us the way of prudence.

O come, thou Wisdom from on high,

Who orderest all things mightily;

To us the path of knowledge show,

And teach us in her ways to go.

Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel

Shall come to thee, O Israel!

See Proverbs 8:1, 22–32

Story for December 17: “A String of Blue Beads” by Fulton Oursler

The words of the angel to King Benjamin:

“For behold, the time cometh, and is not far distant, that with power, the Lord Omnipotent who reigneth, who was, and is from all eternity to all eternity, shall come down from heaven among the children of men, and shall dwell in a tabernacle of clay, and shall go forth amongst men, working mighty miracles, such as healing the sick, raising the dead, causing the lame to walk, the blind to receive their sight, and the deaf to hear, and curing all manner of diseases.

“And he shall cast out devils, or the evil spirits which dwell in the hearts of the children of men. And lo, he shall suffer temptations, and pain of body, hunger, thirst, and fatigue, even more than man can suffer, except it be unto death; for behold, blood cometh from every pore, so great shall be his anguish for the wickedness and the abominations of his people.

“And he shall be called Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the Father of heaven and earth, the Creator of all things from the beginning; and his mother shall be called Mary.” (Mosiah 3:5–8)

Suggested Carol: “O, Come, All Ye Faithful”

December 18

O Adonai

O Lord and Ruler of the house of Israel, who didst appear to Moses in a burning bush, and didst give him the law on Sinai: Come and deliver us with an outstretched arm.

O come, O come, thou Lord of might,
                    Who to thy tribes on Sinai's height
                    In ancient times didst give the law,
                    In cloud and majesty and awe.
                        Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
                        Shall come to thee, O Israel!

                    See Isaiah 43:1–7

Suggested Story: “Trouble at the Inn” by Dina Donahue. Another one of my favorites, this touching story is about a mentally slow boy whose tenderness causes a rather surprising change in the community Christmas pageant.

The words of Alma to the people of Gideon:

“But behold, the Spirit hath said this much unto me, saying: Cry unto this people, saying—Repent ye, and prepare the way of the Lord, and walk in his paths, which are straight; for behold, the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and the Son of God cometh upon the face of the earth.

“And behold, he shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our forefathers, she being a virgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, yea, even the Son of God.” (Alma 7:9–10)

Suggested Carol: “Oh, Hush Thee, My Baby,” Children’s Songbook, 48.

1. Oh, hush thee, my baby; a story I’ll tell,
How little Lord Jesus on earth came to dwell;
How in a far country, ’way over the sea,
Was born a wee baby, my dear one, like thee.

[Chorus]
Lullaby, baby, lullaby, dear.
Sleep, little baby; have nothing to fear.
Lullaby, baby, lullaby, dear.
Jesus will care for his little one here.

2. The story was told by the angels so bright,
As round them was shining a heavenly light.
The stars shone out brightly, but one led the way
And stood o’er the place where the dear baby lay.

3. The shepherds here found him, as angels had said,
The poor little stranger, no crib for a bed.
Down low in a manger so quiet he lay.
This little child Jesus, asleep on the hay.

December 19

O Radix Jesse

O Root of Jesse, who standest for an ensign to the peoples, at whom kings shall shut their mouths, and to whom the Gentiles shall pray: Come and deliver us, and do not delay.

                    O come, thou Rod of Jesse's stem,
                    From every foe deliver them
                    That trust thy mighty power to save,
                    And give them vict'ry o'er the grave.
                        Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
                        Shall come to thee, O Israel!

                    See Isaiah 11:1–9

The words of Samuel the Lamanite to the people of Zarahemla:

“And behold, he said unto them: Behold, I give unto you a sign; for five years more cometh, and behold, then cometh the Son of God to redeem all those who shall believe on his name.

“And behold, this will I give unto you for a sign at the time of his coming; for behold, there shall be great lights in heaven, insomuch that in the night before he cometh there shall be no darkness, insomuch that it shall appear unto man as if it was day. Therefore, there shall be one day and a night and a day, as if it were one day and there were no night; and this shall be unto you for a sign; for ye shall know of the rising of the sun and also of its setting; therefore they shall know of a surety that there shall be two days and a night; nevertheless the night shall not be darkened; and it shall be the night before he is born.

“And behold, there shall a new star arise, such an one as ye never have beheld; and this also shall be a sign unto you. And behold this is not all, there shall be many signs and wonders in heaven. And it shall come to pass that ye shall all be amazed, and wonder, insomuch that ye shall fall to the earth. And it shall come to pass that whosoever shall believe on the Son of God, the same shall have everlasting life.” (Helaman 14:2–8)

Suggested Carol: “Stars Were Gleaming,” Children’s Songbook, 37

December 20

O Clavis David

O Key of David, and Scepter of the house of Israel; who openest and no one shutteth, who shuttest and no one openeth: come and bring the prisoners out of the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death.

                    O come, thou Key of David, come,
                    And open wide our heav'nly home;
                    Make safe the way that leads on high,
                    And close the path to misery.
                        Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
                        Shall come to thee, O Israe

See Isaiah 22:20–24

Suggested Story: "To See Again" by Gary B. Swanson

The Annunciation to Mary:

“And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, ‘Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.’

“And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her, ‘Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.’

Then said Mary unto the angel, ‘How shall this be, seeing I know not a man?’ And the angel answered and said unto her, ‘The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible.’

“And Mary said, ‘Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.’ And the angel departed from her.” (Luke 1:26–38)

John Willliam Waterhouse, "The Annunciation"

Suggested Carol: “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming,” 100 Carols for Choirs, no. 50.

Lo, how a Rose e’er blooming
From tender stem hath sprung!
Of Jesse’s lineage coming
As men of old have sung
It came, a flow’ret bright,
Amid the cold of winter
When half spent was the night.

Isaiah ‘twas foretold it
The rose I have in mind,
With Mary we behold it,
The Virgin Mother kind.
To show God’s love aright,
She bore to men a Saviour,
When half spent was the night.

O flow’r, whose fragrance tender
With sweetness fills the air,
Dispel in glorious splendour
The darkness ev’ry where.
True man, yet very God,
From sin and death now save us,
And share our ev’ry load.

December 21

O Oriens

O Day-Spring, radiant everlasting Light, and Sun of Righteousness: Come and enlighten those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death.

                    O come, thou Day-spring from on high,
                    And cheer us by thy drawing nigh;
                    Disperse the gloomy clouds of night,
                    And death's dark shadow put to flight.
                        Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
                        Shall come to thee, O Israel!

See Isaiah 42:1–7; Luke 1:78

Suggested Story: “Once in a Lifetime Christmas” by Will Wright. Without a doubt, this is one of my favorite stories that we read at Christmastime, recalling a Depression-era Christmas when an entire town worked together to give its children a Christmas they would always remember.

The angel’s words to Joseph:

“When as . . . Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.

“But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.’

“Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son . . .” (Matthew 1:18–25)

Joseph Brickey, "Annunciation to Joseph"

Suggested Carol: “Joseph Dearest, Joseph Mine"

Joseph dearest, Joseph mine,
Help to rock this child divine;
God has sent in his own time a Son of Man
A Son, a Babe,
The Holy One of Mary!

Joseph dearest, Joseph mine,
help to rock this child divine;
God doth give to thee and thine
His honored Son,
the Holy One of Mary

Joseph dearest, Joseph mine,
help to rock this child divine;
God in glory now doth shine
Upon the Babe,
the Holy One of Mary

Refrain:
For Christ our Lord is born this day,
Is born this day, Immanuel!
Precious Child born in lowly manger.
Ea, ea, Glory be on high,
Sing alleluia!

Bridge:
He came to us in Bethlehem,
He came to us a spotless gem,
He came to us our Lord to be
Little, humble Babe indeed,
Lovely Child be thou our need.

Sleep, thou dear and lovely one,
Come to earth as God's own Son,
for this day all love is won
with thee, the Son,
the Holy One of Mary.

Refrain

December 22

O Rex gentium.

O King of the Nations, and their Desire; the Cornerstone who dost unite the divided into
one: Come and save mankind, whom thou didst create out of clay.

O come, Desire of nations, bind
In one the hearts of all mankind;
Bid thou our sad divisions cease,
And be thyself our King of Peace.

Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel!

See Isaiah 45:8–13; Jeremiah 10:7

Suggested story: “The Gift of Love” by Thomas S. Monson

The visit to Elisabeth and the Magnificat:

“And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Juda; And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: And she spake out with a loud voice, and said,

‘Blessed art thou among women,

and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.

And whence is this to me,

that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

For, lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears,

the babe leaped in my womb for joy.

And blessed is she that believed:

for there shall be a performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.’

“And Mary said,

‘My soul doth magnify the Lord,

And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.

For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden:

for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.

For he that is mighty hath done to me great things;

and holy is his name.

And his mercy is on them that fear him

from generation to generation.

He hath shewed strength with his arm;

he hath scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.

He hath put down the mighty from their seats,

and exalted them of low degree.

He hath filled the hungry with good things;

and the rich he hath sent empty away.

He hath holpen his servant Israel,

in remembrance of his mercy;

As he spake to our fathers,

to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.’

“And Mary abode with her about three months, and returned to her own house.” (Luke 1:39–56)

Bloch, "Meeting of Mary and Elisabeth"

Suggested Carol: “Away in a Manger,” Hymns, no. 206.

December 23

O Emmanuel

O Emmanuel, our King and Lawgiver, the One whom the Gentiles expect, and their Salvation: Come and save us, O Lord our God.

O come, O come, Emmanuel,

And ransom captive Israel,
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appear.

Refrain: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel
Shall come to thee, O Israel!

See Isaiah 33:20–22 and Isaiah 7:14

Suggested Story: “Unexpected Christmas” by Marguerite Nixon. Another one of my favorites, this story tells of a city couple that learns the true meaning of Christmas when they are forced to spend Christmas Eve with a humble farming family.

The words of the Lord to Nephi, the son of Nephi, the son of Helaman:

“Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets. Behold, I come unto my own, to fulfil all things which I have made known unto the children of men from the foundation of the world, and to do the will, both of the Father and of the Son—of the Father because of me, and of the Son because of my flesh. And behold, the time is at hand, and this night shall the sign be given.” (3 Nephi 1:13–14)

Barrett, "The New Star"

Suggested Carol: “Once within a Lowly Stable,” Children’s Songbook, 41.

1. Once within a lowly stable,
Where the sheep and oxen lay,
A loving mother laid her baby
In a manger filled with hay.
Mary was the mother there,
And the Christ that baby fair.

2. God sent us this loving baby
From his home in heav’n above,
And he came down to show all people
How to help and how to love.
This is why the angels bright
Sang for joy that Christmas night.

December 24

Christmas Eve

Carl Bloch, "The Holy Night"

See my full blog entry on celebrating Christmas Eve.

The biblical Christmas story:

“And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. 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.” (Luke 2:1–7)

“And [Joseph] knew her not until she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.” (Matthew 1:25)

“And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 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. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

“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. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:8–16)

Eva Koleva Timothy, "Good Tidings of Great Joy"

My Christmas message for 2023 (recorded outside of Bethlehem in November 2022):

Suggested Carol: “Silent Night,” Hymns, no. 204.

The Nativity of Our Lord: Christmas Eve (traditional Anglican "cóllect," or group liturgical prayer): O God, you have caused this holy night to shine with the brightness of the true Light: Grant that we, who have known the mystery of that Light on earth, may also enjoy him perfectly in heaven; where with you and the Holy Spirit he lives and reigns, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, "Adoration of the Shepherds"

December 25

Christmas Day

See my full blogpost "Rejoicing in Salvation: The Focus of Advent and Christmas"

Suggested Story: "Christmas Night" by Max Lucado. I stumbled upon this gem many years ago when feeling sad and letdown at the end of a busy but happy Christmas season. It has now become an annual tradition to re-light the candles of our Advent wreath at the end of Christmas Day and read this story, which always makes me weep at the line "In the emotion of the father who is too thankful to finish the dinner table prayer." I have not been able to find it online again, but reproduce it here with all credit to Reverend Lucado.

Shutterstock Item ID: 1505198771, unlimited web license

The Shepherds Bear Witness of the Newborn King:

“And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.” (Luke 2:17–20)

Suggested Carol: “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day”

One of the Anglican collects for Christmas Day:

O God, thou makest us glad by the yearly festival of the birth of thy only Son Jesus Christ: Grant that we, who joyfully receive him as our Redeemer, may with sure confidence behold him when he comes to be our Judge; who lives and reigns with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Christmas Is a Season

The Twelve Days of Christmas

“Traditionally, Christmas was a season, not a single day. Rather than being some kind of countdown to the big day, the customary Twelve Days were a celebration that began with Christmas and stretched to the eve of Epiphany on January 6. In recent years we have tried to recapture some of that concept of a season of celebration rather than just a day. We have started leaving our Christmas tree up and our Christmas lights on until January 6, the night our family reads the story of the coming of the Wise Men from Matthew 2. And rather than abruptly ending our December pattern of reading and singing together each evening, we now try to read some of the other stories that follow the birth and the adoration of the shepherd, such as the Presentation in the Temple and then the story of Jesus as a boy, later teaching in that same temple (Luke 2:41–52)” (Good Tidings of Great Joy, 136).

A few years ago, I added some traditional readings, scriptures, and carols for December 26 and 28 as well as Epiphany (or “Three Kings Day”) on January 6 to this resource guide. I am now in the process of fleshing it out a bit by adding some of the other days for my personal study and reflection (although the only post-Christmas Day that I have tried to mobilize my family for is January 6.

Suggested Carol: “The Twelve Days of Christmas”

The Oxford Dictionary of Nursery Rhymes (1951) notes that “Suggestions have been made that the gifts [of this carol] have significance, as representing the food or sport for each month of the year” but also points out that “whatever the ultimate origin of the chant . . . it is probably that the lines that survives today are merely an irreligious [distortion]” (pp. 122–23). While the proposal that the song was mean as catechism for persecuted English Catholics has now been largely discounted, using some of the widely-circulated symbolism for the carol nonetheless provides some useful structure for celebrating the Twelve Days of Christmas (see, for instance, “The 12 Days of Christmas Lyrics and Meaning of Each Gift” and Scott P. Richert “What Are the 12 Days of Christmas?” Learn Religions, Oct. 15, 2021).

Using such a rubric, “the partridge in a pear tree represents Jesus, the Son of God, whose birthday we celebrate on the first day of Christmas. Christ is symbolically presented as a mother partridge, the only bird that will die to protect its young.”

December 26: Second Day of Christmas

St. Stephen's Day

The "two turtle doves" can be taken to represent the Old and New Testaments.

December 26 is also the traditional feast day of Stephen, the first Christian martyr who was stoned for his fearless testimony of Jesus Christ. Because he had been called to care for the poor widows of the Jerusalem church, he is the patron saint of those who provide charity to the needy, a later example of which was “Good King Wenceslas.”

George Sheridan Knowles, "Good King Wenceslas"

Suggested Story: "The Story of Good King Wenceslas" by Lloyd Newell, Music and the Spoken Word, December 22, 2019

At Wenceslas Square, in the heart of Prague, there is a statue of the Duke of Bohemia, affectionately known as good King Wenceslas. A caring Christian ruler and patron saint of the Czech Republic, Wenceslas has come to represent kindhearted generosity and selfless giving. And because these attributes are at the heart of Christmas, it’s not surprising that good King Wenceslas is also the subject of a beloved Christmas carol.

The carol is based on a story set during a feast day shortly after Christmas. But King Wenceslas is not feasting; instead, he looks out the window onto the wintry landscape and discovers a poor man, gathering whatever meager firewood he can find in the deep snow. Filled with compassion, Wenceslas calls his page and tells him to bring food and wood for the destitute man. Then, instead of sending his page on the errand alone, Wenceslas leaves his comfortable home and goes with the page into the cold night to deliver the gifts personally.

At one point, the snow becomes so deep and the wind so fierce that the page wonders if he can carry on. But Wenceslas invites him to walk in his footsteps, and as he does, the page finds strength to endure. Together they brave the storm and fill the poor man’s humble home with generous gifts.

Aren’t we all somewhat like Wenceslas’s page? We joyfully accept the invitation to generous giving that comes with the Christmas season. But sometimes meaningful giving, the kind that really makes a difference, requires sacrifice, and that can be difficult. When this happens, we can find strength as we walk in the steps of the Master Giver.

After all, as he once said, “Whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant” (Matthew 20:27).

This is why we honor good King Wenceslas more than a thousand years later: because he reminds us of the kindness and generosity of another king — one who also chose to be a servant, who lived among the poor and the weary so that he could give them relief. This is the king whose birth and life of service we celebrate at Christmas.

The Wenceslas told by actress Jane Seymore at the 2011 Tabernacle Choir Christmas concert.

Suggested scriptures for December 26:

The call of the Seven to serve the poor widows of Jerusalem.

“Now during those days, when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists complained against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food. And the twelve called together the whole community of the disciples and said, ‘It is not right that we should neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. Therefore, friends, select from among yourselves seven men of good standing, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this task, while we, for our part, will devote ourselves to prayer and to serving the word.’ What they said pleased the whole community, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, together with Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. They had these men stand before the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. The word of God continued to spread; the number of the disciples increased greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith. Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. (Acts 6:1–8 NRSV)

Serving others is the same as serving Christ.

"Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, 'Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.' Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, 'Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?' And the King shall answer and say unto them, 'Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me'" (Matthew 25:34–40)

Suggested Carol: “Good King Wenceslas”

December 27: Third Day of Christmas

Feast of St. John the Evangelist

The "three French hens" can be used to represent the "faith, hope, and charity" of 1 Corinthians 13.

December 27 is the traditional day to remember the mission and contributions of the apostle John, who is conventionally associated with the Beloved Disciple, the source or earliest author of the Fourth Gospel. While the Gospel according to John does not have an infancy narrative like either Matthew or Luke, it instead presents the highest Christology of the four Gospels, poetically presenting Christ as the premortal Divine Word who is only thinly veiled in flesh as the man Jesus.

High-res detail, John 1:1. Quire 80, folio 1, recto

Suggested Scriptures:

Opening statement of the Logos Hymn that opens the Gospel according to John.

In the beginning was the Word,

and the Word was with God,
and the Word was God.

The same was in the beginning with God.
All things were made by him;

and without him was not any thing made
that was made.

And the Word was made flesh,

and dwelt among us, (John 1:1–3, 14a)

The words of the Risen Lord, spoken in the darkness to the Nephites:

Behold, I am Jesus Christ the Son of God.
I created the heavens and the earth,

and all things that in them are.

I was with the Father from the beginning.
I am in the Father,

and the Father in me;

and in me hath the Father glorified his name.

I am the light and the life of the world.
I am Alpha and Omega,

the beginning and the end. (3 Nephi 9:15, 18)

Eva Koleva Timothy, "In the Beginning Was the Word"

Suggested Carol: "Of the Father's Love Begotten"

One of the earliest Christmas carols is “Of the Father’s Love Begotten” (Corde natus ex parentis), a Latin poem written by Aurelius Prudentius Clemens, who lived between A.D. 348 and about 405. Later sing to the haunting Medieval plainchant Divinium mysterium, the five of its original nine verses that appear below beautifully capture the second Advent theme of love, Jesus’ premortal divinity, the miracle of his conception, and the praise and honor that we owe him:

Of the Father’s love begotten
ere the worlds began to be,
he is Alpha and Omega —
he the source, the ending he,
of the things that are, that have been,
and that future years shall see
evermore and evermore.

O that birth forever blessed,
when a virgin, blest with grace,
by the Holy Ghost conceiving,
bore the Savior of our race;
and the babe, the world’s Redeemer,
first revealed his sacred face,
evermore and evermore.

This is he whom seers in old time
chanted of with one accord,
whom the voices of the prophets
promised in their faithful word;
now he shines, the long-expected;
let creation praise its Lord
evermore and evermore.

Let the heights of heaven adore him;
angel hosts, his praises sing:
powers, dominions, bow before him
and extol our God and King;
let no tongue on earth be silent,
every voice in concert ring
evermore and evermore.

Christ, to you, with God the Father
and the Spirit, there shall be
hymn and chant and high thanksgiving
and the shout of jubilee:
honor, glory, and dominion
and eternal victory
evermore and evermore.

Traditional Anglican collect for December 27: "O God, who through the blessed Apostle John have unlocked for us the secrets of your Word, grant, we pray, that we may grasp with proper understanding what he has so marvelously brought to our ears. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever."

December 28: Fourth Day of Christmas

Childermas or “Feast of the Holy Innocents”

The “four calling birds” might represent the four evangelists—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—and the Gospels they wrote.

December 28 is the traditional day that commemorates Herod’s slaughter of all the baby boys two years old and younger. The traditional “Coventry Carol” that reflects the heart-rending sorrow felt by the mothers of the lost children speaks powerfully to any parent who has lost a child.

Léon Cogniet, Scene of Massacre of the Innocents

“Sadness at Christmastime” by Eric D. Huntsman, from Good Tidings of Great Joy, 114

The grief of the mothers of Bethlehem compels us to face a sad reality: what is such a joyous season for so many is often a cheerless or even depressing time for others. As Elder Jeffery R. Holland has written, “For many people in many places this may not be an entirely happy Christmas, one not filled with complete joy because of the circumstances facing a spouse or a friend, a child or a grandchild. Or perhaps that was the case another Christmas in another year, but one which brings a painful annual memory to us yet” (Shepherds Why This Jubilee, 59). To the list of those who have lost a loved one or suffered some personal pain, I would add those who are alone, ill, or chronically depressed at Christmastime. Circumstances beyond our control often weigh heavily upon us, set in sharp contrast by the seeming joy of so many around us. And sometimes the sadness we feel is simply the regret and letdown that comes when a happy time comes to a necessary end and we are confronted with the monotony or dreary routine of day-to-day living.

In his short book, Shepherds Why This Jubilee, Elder Holland concludes by reflecting on a sad Christmas in his own life, recounting the year his own father suffered a heart attack following surgery right before Christmas. In the hospital early Christmas morning in 1976, facing the imminent loss of his father, the sound of a newborn baby jolted him out of his sorrow.

Comparing the joy of that baby’s parents to that of Mary and Joseph that first Christmas, Elder Holland considered the great plan of salvation that the Babe of Bethlehem, as the Man on the Cross, would effect for us. He wrote, “Temporary separation at death and the other difficulties that attend us as we all move toward that end are part of the price we pay for birth and family ties and the fun of Christmas together . . . These are God’s gifts to us—birth and life and death and salvation, the whole divine experience in all its richness and complexity” (Shepherds Why This Jubilee, 67–68, 71).

Christmas may not always be happy. But the coming of Jesus into the world that wonderful night made possible the great suffering, death, and resurrection of our Lord, which are the true tidings of great joy. Hopefully we can ameliorate our own sadness by serving and giving to others, lightening their burdens and easing their loneliness. Ultimately, however, we must with faith lay hold on the promise that joy—true joy without end—often lies ahead.

Scriptures for December 28:

Slaughter of the Innocents:

“And when [the Magi] were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, ‘Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.’ When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: And was there until the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, ‘Out of Egypt have I called my son.’

"Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the prophet, saying, ‘In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.’” (Matthew 2:13–18)

Edwin Longsden Long, Anno Domini (Flight into Egypt)

Words of Comfort from the Risen Lord to Latter-day Saints.

"Thou shalt alive together in love, insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die, and more especially for those that have not hope of a glorious resurrection. And it shall come to pass that those that die in me shall not taste of death, for it shall be sweet unto them . . .” (D&C 42:45–46)

Suggested Carol: “Coventry Carol”

The traditional “Coventry Carol” that reflects the heart-rending sorrow felt by the mothers of the lost children of Bethlehem speaks powerfully to any parent who has lost a child . . or to any of us who have suffered any kind of loss that rent our own hearts.

Traditional Anglican collect for December 28: “We remember today, O God, the slaughter of the holy innocents of Bethlehem by the order of King Herod. Receive, we beseech thee, into the arms of thy mercy all innocent victims; and by thy great might frustrate the designs of evil tyrants and establish thy rule of justice, love, and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.”

December 29: Fifth Day of Christmas

Traditionally the fifth day of Christmas falls on the Feast of St. Thomas Beckett, the archbishop of Canterbury slain by King Henry II. While there are no set Christmas traditions or specific carols for the fifth day, the famous song "The Twelve Days of Christmas" might suggest that the gift of this day as "five golden rings," which has traditionally stood for the first give books of the Old Testament. Christians see these books as describing man's fall and how God, in his great love, sent a Savior.

Suggested story: “The Bracelet Promise” by Carmen Leal-Pock. A precious gift from a dying husband reminds one woman of God's promise: "Before I was ever born, God made another promise. He promised me eternal salvation. He promised He would be with me every step of the way. All I had to do was ask."

https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/believe/bible/john-3-16

Suggested scriptures:

The Johannine Evangelists on God's gift of his Son.

For God so loved the world,

that he gave his only begotten Son,
that whosoever believeth in him should not perish,
but have everlasting life.

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world;

but that the world through him might be saved. (John 3:16–17)

The Father's declaration to the early Latter-day Saints.

Thus saith the Lord; for I am God, and have sent mine Only Begotten Son into the world for the redemption of the world, and have decreed that he that receiveth him shall be saved . . (D&C 49:5)

Carol for the fifth day: "A Gift of Love"

Here in this silent night,
Now all the world is right,
As if we've suddenly been given,
A gift of love, a gift of love.

Warm as the fire glow,
Soft as the fallen snow,
A precious miracle we live in,
This wonder of a gift of love.

Bridge:
Night falls at this coldest time of the year
Love calls and it’s summer in here.

Here where I love you so,
Now as our blessings grow,
We share the greatest gift we’ll ever know,
A gift of love, a gift of love.

December 30: Sixth Day of Christmas

The “six geese a laying” traditionally refer to the six days of creation. In the traditional Anglican calendar, the day commemorated St. Egwin of Worcester who was known as the protector of orphans and widows. Since it also sometimes falls on the day on which the Feast of the Holy Family is celebrated, I've chosen to continue to story from Matthew, recounting how Joseph was inspired to bring Mary and Jesus back to the land of Israel, eventually settling in Nazareth.

Edwin Longsden Long, Anno Domini (Flight into Egypt)

Suggested reading for December 30, encouraging us to be more like Joseph, seeking revelation to protect and provide for our families:

“The story of how Joseph the Carpenter accepted, protected, raised, and no doubt loved a precious child who was not his own is one that stirs the heart. In many traditions, his goodness and the faithful discharge of his special mission earned him the title Saint Joseph, and he is honored together with Mary and the Baby Jesus as part of a Holy Family. After the Infancy Narratives of Matthew and Luke and the brief story of the boy Jesus in the temple, Joseph is never heard of again. Passing references to Jesus’ supposed father (Matthew 13:55; Mark 6:3; John 6:42), together with his otherwise conspicuous absence later in the Gospels seem to suggest that he was no longer alive when the adult Jesus began his public ministry. We are left instead with the impression of a very good man, the loving husband of a special woman and the guardian of a precious child. . . .

“Recognizing that Joseph was a strong, responsible, and loving man who sought and received revelation to care for his family, I am inspired to emulate those qualities. In those moments, the gift I hope to give my Lord that year is to be more like Joseph the Carpenter” (“Joseph and Jesus, Our Children and Us,” Good Tidings of Great Joy, 34).

Suggested scriptures:

Joseph's care for Mary and the baby Jesus.

But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, Saying, "Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life." And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel.

But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee: And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, "He shall be called a Nazarene" (Matthew 2:19–23)

Likewise, Jesus as the Bridegroom cares for and loves the Church, his Bride:

“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it” (Ephesians 5:25).

“Yea, let the cry go forth among all people: ‘Awake and arise and go forth to meet the a-Bridegroom; behold and lo, the Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Prepare yourselves for the great day of the Lord’” (D&C 133:10).

Suggested carol: “Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day”

This carol was perhaps based upon a late Medieval mystery play in which Jesus sings in the first person, describing his life as a dance. The “dancing day” refers to symbolic marriage of Christ as the bridegroom and the Church as the bride.

Tomorrow shall be my dancing day;
I would my true love did so chance
To see the legend of my play,
To call my true love to my dance;

Chorus
Sing, oh! my love, oh! my love, my love, my love,
This have I done for my true love.

Then was I born of a virgin pure,
Of her I took fleshly substance
Thus was I knit to man’s nature
To call my true love to my dance.

In a manger laid, and wrapped I was
So very poor, this was my chance
Betwixt an ox and a silly poor ass
To call my true love to my dance.

Then afterwards baptized I was;
The Holy Ghost on me did glance,
My Father’s voice heard I from above,
To call my true love to my dance.

Then up to heaven I did ascend,
Where now I dwell in sure substance
On the right hand of God, that man
May come unto the general dance.

December 31: Seventh Day of Christmas

New Year's Eve

The “seven swans a-swimming” can represent the so-called seven gifts of the spirit that patristic authors derived from Isaiah 11:1–2. These are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. Those who believe that “The Twelve Days of Christmas” was meant to serve as a catechism for English Catholics also sometimes suggest that the seven swans represent the seven sacraments of the Roman Catholic church.

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Although January is celebrated as Saint Sylvester’s Day in traditional liturgy (Sylvester I was a pope between 314–335), for people generally the day is better known as New Year's Eve, when we celebrate the end of the old year and the start of a new. To give the day some spiritual structure, we might want to thank the Lord for the blessings of the past year and think of how “if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!” (2 Corinthians 5:17 NRSV). It is a time for repentance in the full meaning of the word—not just confession of and remorse for sin but as a change of heart and mind that gives us a new beginning.

Suggested teaching:

“Recently I have found myself drawn to the Lord’s instruction given through the Prophet Joseph Smith: ‘Say nothing but repentance unto this generation.’ This declaration is often repeated throughout scripture. It prompts an obvious question: ‘Does everyone need to repent?’ The answer is yes.

“Too many people consider repentance as punishment—something to be avoided except in the most serious circumstances. But this feeling of being penalized is engendered by Satan. He tries to block us from looking to Jesus Christ, who stands with open arms, hoping and willing to heal, forgive, cleanse, strengthen, purify, and sanctify us.

“The word for repentance in the Greek New Testament is metanoeō. The prefix meta- means ‘change.’ The suffix -noeō is related to Greek words that mean ‘mind,’ ‘knowledge,’ ‘spirit,’ and ‘breath.’

“Thus, when Jesus asks you and me to ‘repent,’ He is inviting us to change our mind, our knowledge, our spirit—even the way we breathe. He is asking us to change the way we love, think, serve, spend our time, treat our wives, teach our children, and even care for our bodies.” (Russell M. Nelson, “We Can Do Better and Be Better,” Liahona, May 2019, 67).

Shutterstock Item ID: 725472031, unlimited web license

Suggested scriptures:

Paul's teaching to the saints in Rome.

“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin” (Romans 6:3–6).

The testimony of Alma the Younger following his conversion.

“And the Lord said unto me: ‘Marvel not that all mankind, yea, men and women, all nations, kindreds, tongues and people, must be born again; yea, born of God, changed from their carnal and fallen state, to a state of righteousness, being redeemed of God, becoming his sons and daughters; and thus they become new creatures; and unless they do this, they can in nowise inherit the kingdom of God’” (Mosiah 27:25–26).

Suggested Song: “Auld Lang Syne”

This is the traditional song sung on New Year's Eve as well as funerals, graduations, and other farewells. The tile is Scottish Gaelic, which is the rough equivalent of “for the sake of old times.”

Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and never brought to mind?
Should old acquaintance be forgot,
and auld lang syne?

Chorus
For auld lang syne, my dear,
for auld lang syne,
we'll take a cup of kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.

And surely you'll buy your pint cup!
and surely I'll buy mine!
And we'll take a cup o' kindness yet,
for auld lang syne.

We two have paddled in the stream,
from morning sun till dine;
But seas between us broad have roared
since auld lang syne.

And there's a hand my trusty friend!
And givest a hand o' thine!
We'll take a right good-will draught,
for auld lang syne.

January 1: Eighth Day of Christmas

New Year's Day

The “eight maids a-milking” are sometimes taken to represent the eight Beatitudes (see Matthew 5:3–10), and in traditional liturgy it can represent either the solemnity of Mary, mother of Jesus (Catholic) or the Feast of the Holy Name (Anglican). Given that it is the first day of the new year, I suggest that we use it to ask God's blessings on our new year, even as we look forward to the future day when he creates a new heaven and new earth.

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Suggested scripture:

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth:
for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away;
and there was no more sea.
And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem,
coming down from God out of heaven,
prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying,

“Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men,
and he will dwell with them,
and they shall be his people,
and God himself shall be with them,
and be their God.
And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes;
and there shall be no more death,
neither sorrow,
nor crying,
neither shall there be any more pain:
for the former things are passed away.”

And he that sat upon the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.”

And he said unto me, “Write: for these words are true and faithful.”

And he said unto me, “It is done.
I am Alpha and Omega,
the beginning and the end.
I will give unto him that is athirst
of the fountain of the water of life freely.
He that overcometh shall inherit all things;
and I will be his God,
and he shall be my son.” (Revelation 21:1–7)

Suggested Carol: Rutter, “New Year”

Turn your eyes to the Light, cast away the works of darkness, let them go
Turn your eyes to the Light.
Turn your face to the Sun. Feel the warmth, the hope of new beginnings
with each new year.

The light was always there, if we could but see it,
and warmth was in the air, if we’d known how to feel.
Turn your eyes to the Light. Turn your face to the Sun.
New Light, New Hope, New Year.

New Light. New Hope. New Year!
Turn your ears to the sound. Somewhere near the voice is calling, “Hear the news.”

Turn your ears to the sound.
Turn your heart to the Love. Christ is come to bring the world new Life.
To bring new Life.
The voice is always there, if the world will hear it.

And love is always there, if you search in your heart.
Turn your ears to the sound. Turn your heart to the love.
New Life, New Love, New Year.
New Life, and Love, and Light and Hope.

This Good New Year.
New Year.

January 2: Ninth Day of Christmas

The “nine ladies dancing” are generally seen to be the nine fruits of the spirit identified in Galatians 5:22–23, names love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance. Although the Presentation of Jesus in the temple is traditionally celebrated with the feast of Candlemas on February 2, I suggest that individuals and families looking to give the final days of Christmastide a more scriptural footing return to the story as told in Luke 2:21–39 for the ninth, tenth, and eleventh days of Christmas. For January 2, we will focus on the witness of the prophet Simeon.

Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn, Simeon's Song of Praise

Suggested reflection: “Simeon and Believers Today”

"The image of the aged Simeon in the temple, at last meeting his promised Savior, is one that resonates with many believers today. It is also an image that has come to have special, personal meaning to me. In 2010, just four days before Christmas, my grandfather Cannon Huntsman died. Two days after Christmas, we buried him. Funerals at Christmastime are always poignant, even when they are held for good men and women who die at an old age. The sense of loss and sadness can weigh heavily on and even dampen the Christmas spirit.

“But it was the story of Simeon that gave me great comfort the day after that Christmas. I read it that night to Elaine and the children, and I decided to use it in my remarks at the funeral the next day. As long as health permitted, Grandpa had spent as much time as he could in the temple. And like Simeon, he had a powerful faith in his Savior and Redeemer. While he did not hold the baby Jesus in his arms nor see the risen Lord in the flesh, Grandpa had seen the hand of the Lord all his life and rejoiced in his testimony of Jesus.

“While modern revelation tells us ‘thou shalt live together in love insomuch that thou shalt weep for the loss of them that die,’ it also reassures us that ‘those that die in me shall not taste of death, for it shall be sweet unto them’ (D&C 42:45, 46). I have come to believe that men and women of Christ, like Grandpa, can share the sentiment of Simeon when their time comes, crying out in their hearts, ‘Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace’ (Luke 2:29)” (Eric Huntsman, Good Tidings of Great Joy, 93).

Arent de Gelder, Simeon's Song of Praise

Suggested scripture:

The Witness of Simon and the Nunc dimittis.

And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called Jesus, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb. And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; As it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord,” And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.

And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace,
according to thy word:
For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
A light to lighten the Gentiles,
and the glory of thy people Israel. (Luke 2:21–32)

Suggested Canticle: "Nunc Dimittis"

The fourth and final canticle of the Lucan infancy narrative, the Nunc dimittis (Latin for “Now you are sending away or dismissing [thy servant]) has an honored place in the evening prayers of many liturgical traditions. Never knowing when each day may be our last, we pray before bed that should we be taken that night we can go in peace, knowing our Savior, Jesus Christ.

January 3: Tenth Day of Christmas

The “ten lords a-leaping” are often said to represent the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1–17) Without particular traditions for this day, I suggest that individuals and families continue with the Lucan story of the Presentation, focusing on Simeon’s poignant prophecy to Mary that told her she would see her son’s death on the cross. As Restoration scripture confirms (see 1 Nephi 11:14–23 below), Mary holds a crucial role as a witness of her Son’s identity and mission. Who, other than God himself, could testify that Jesus was, in fact the Son of God? And standing at the foot of the cross, she had a powerful witness that he had come to die for the sin of the world.

Simon Vouet, Presentation in the Temple

Suggested reading: “The Mother of Jesus and the Incarnation”

“[Interpreting the changing of water to wine as a symbol of the divine Jehovah becoming the man Jesus] makes Mary’s presence at Cana all the more significant. Just as she was the catalyst for the miracle, prompting her son to act, so she was a necessary agent in making the Word flesh (compare John 1:14). The miracle at Cana is, in a sense, the Gospel of John’s equivalent of an infancy narrative. What Matthew 1–2 and Luke 1–2 do explicitly in their narratives, John does symbolically. . . .

“Not only was Jesus’s mother a witness that he was the Son of God, she was the very instrument of bringing him into the world. As a type, however, these same roles extend to us. We, too, can be witnesses of Christ’s divinity and be catalysts in bringing others to him, helping them become recipients of his grace. According to the well-loved canticle called the Magnificat, Mary ‘magnified the Lord’ (Luke 1:46–55) by conceiving and bearing the Babe of Bethlehem. In a similar way, we can seek to magnify the Risen Christ by bringing him into the world through our lives and testimonies every day” (Eric Huntsman, Becoming the Beloved Disciple, 32–33).

See also “Standing at the Foot of the Cross,” Becoming the Beloved Disciple, 33–34, where I wrote, “[The imagery of blood and water coming from Jesus’ side as he hangs upon the cross] connects the Incarnation with his mortal death, reminding us that after God himself, there is no greater witness of Jesus Christ than his mother. No one else knows better the truth of his divine conception and miraculous birth, and no one probably felt more strongly the pain of his atoning death.”

Michelangelo, Pietà

Suggested scriptures:

Simeon’s prophecy to Mary.

And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother,

Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel;
and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,
that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

(Luke 2:33–35, emphasis added)

From the Apocalypse of Nephi, in which an angel shows Nephi a vision of the Mary and the Tree of Life, which represents the love of God realized in the birth and death of Jesus Christ.

And it came to pass that I saw the heavens open; and an angel came down and stood before me; and he said unto me: “Nephi, what beholdest thou?” And I said unto him: “A virgin, most beautiful and fair above all other virgins.”

And he said unto me: “Knowest thou the condescension of God?” And I said unto him: “I know that he loveth his children; nevertheless, I do not know the meaning of all things.” And he said unto me: “Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God, after the manner of the flesh.”

And it came to pass that I beheld that she was carried away in the Spirit; and after she had been carried away in the Spirit for the space of a time the angel spake unto me, saying: “Look!” And I looked and beheld the virgin again, bearing a child in her arms. And the angel said unto me: “Behold the Lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father! Knowest thou the meaning of the tree which thy father saw?” And I answered him, saying: “Yea, it is the love of God, which sheddeth itself abroad in the hearts of the children of men; wherefore, it is the most desirable above all things.” And he spake unto me, saying: “Yea, and the most joyous to the soul.” (1 Nephi 11:14–23)

Suggested Carol: “Jesus Christ the Apple Tree”

The tree of life my soul hath seen,
Laden with fruit and always green;
The trees of nature fruitless be,
Compared with Christ the Apple Tree.

His beauty doth all things excel,
By faith I know but ne'er can tell
The glory which I now can see,
In Jesus Christ the Appletree.

For happiness I long have sought,
And pleasure dearly I have bought;
I missed of all but now I see
'Tis found in Christ the Appletree.

I'm weary with my former toil—
Here I will sit and rest awhile,
Under the shadow I will be,
Of Jesus Christ the Appletree.

With great delight I’ll make my stay,
There’s none shall fright my soul away;
Among the sons of men I see
There’s none like Christ the Appletree.

I’ll sit and eat this fruit divine,
It cheers my heart like spirit’al wine;
And now this fruit is sweet to me,
That grows on Christ the Appletree.

This fruit doth make my soul to thrive,
It keeps my dying faith alive;
Which makes my soul in haste to be
With Jesus Christ the Appletree.

Nephi’s vision of Mary, the Tree of Life, and the condescension (1 Nephi 11:12–33) connects the Incarnation and Death of Jesus Christ with both the lost Tree of Life in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:9, 3:24) and the restored Tree in the New Jerusalem, “which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations” (Revelation 22:1–2). This image has been beautifully set in the lyrics of David Warner and the music of Mack Wilberg in their “Tree of Life.”

January 4: Eleventh Day of Christmas

The “eleven pipers piping” are often seen as representing the eleven faithful apostles, Judas having betrayed Jesus and then taken his own life. I suggest that individuals and families continue with the story of the baby Jesus in the temple.

Jerry Bacik, Anna in the Temple

The story of the prophetess Anna:

“Luke’s narrative provides a second witness in the temple in the person of Anna, an elderly widow who spent every day in the temple in prayer and fasting (Luke 2:36–37). Significantly, she is described as a prophetess, connecting her to Deborah, Huldah, the wife of Isaiah, and perhaps Samuel’s mother, Hannah. Indeed, Anna is a Greek transliteration of the Hebrew name Ḥannah, providing yet another connection between the story of Jesus’ birth and that of the prophet Samuel. At a time when most Jews were from the tribes of Judah, Benjamin, and Levi, Luke notes that Anna was from the tribe of Asher, perhaps suggesting that the lost tribes of Israel also await the coming of Christ. Having married young, perhaps between ten and fourteen, she had lost her husband after seven years, and, depending upon how the next verse is read, she was either eighty-four years old or had lived another eighty-four years after her husband’s death, which would mean she was as old as 103 or 105. While the actual words of this faithful woman are not preserved, as Simeon’s had been, she first blesses or thanks God and then 'spake [Greek, elalei, or “kept speaking”] of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem' (Luke 2:38)” (Good Tidings of Great Joy, 92; see also Camille Fronk Olson's entry on Anna in her Women in the New Testament).

Suggested scripture:

And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem (Luke 2:36–38)

Jan van't Hoff, "Simeon and Anna"
(https://www.gospelimages.com/paintings/47/simeon-and-anna-1?)

Suggested Carol: “Ding Dong Merrily on High”

Ding dong, merrily on high!
In heav’n the bells are ringing;
ding dong, verily the sky
is riv’n with angel singing.
Gloria, hosannah in excelsis!
Gloria, hosannah in excelsis!

E'en so here below, below,
let steeple bells be swungen,
And io, io, io,
by priest and people sungen.
Gloria, hosannah in excelsis!
Gloria, hosannah in excelsis!

Pray ye dutifully prime
your matin chime, ye ringers;
may ye beautifully rhyme
your evetime song, ye singers.
Gloria, hosannah in excelsis!
Gloria, hosannah in excelsis!

January 5: Twelfth Night

Often the “twelve drummers drumming” have been associated with the twelve doctrinal statements of the Apostles’ Creed, a Catholic declaration of faith dating back to as early as the fourth century that has also been accepted by many western Protestant churches. Of course the celebration of the Twelve Days of Christmas is much older, and as a celebration “Twelfth Night” was almost as important as Christmas Eve and Christmas Day themselves.

As the eve of Epiphany or “Three Kings Day,” many traditional celebrations were connected to the coming of the Magi to worship the Baby Jesus. But many aspects of the celebration revolved around food and fun. Families can choose to incorporate many of the different enjoyably foods and activities, but as a devotional guide, we suggest here that the arrival of the Magi to the court of King Herod can be read as a lead-up to their visit to Bethlehem. Some fictional stories associated with the “kings,” like the much-beloved story of “The Little Drummer Boy,” can be ways to help children reflect on what it means to come worship the newborn king.

Suggested article: Rebecca Young, "The Hidden Religious Message in The Little Drummer Boy"

James Tissot, Journey of the Magi

Suggested scripture:

“Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, ‘Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.’ When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born. And they said unto him, ‘In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,

And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda,
art not the least among the princes of Juda:
for out of thee shall come a Governor,
that shall rule my people Israel.’

Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also” (Matthew 2:1–8)

James Tissot, The Magi in the House of Herod

Suggested Carol: "Carol to the King"

Suggested Carol: "Little Drummer Boy (Carol of the Drum)"

January 6

Epiphany or “Three Kings Day”

The Greek word epiphaneia means “manifestation” and signifies the “striking appearance” or theophany God made flesh in the person of Jesus. In Eastern Christianity it primarily referred to the “unveiling” of Jesus’ identity at his baptism when God declared that he was his beloved Son (Mark 1:10–11; parallels Matthew 3:16–17; Luke 3:21–22). In the West, it was the day when the Magi, or Wise Men, came to the Babe of Bethlehem and recognized Jesus as the long-expected king. Traditionally Epiphany has been an important holiday, almost a "Little Christmas."

For further discussion, see my extended Epiphany post.

Jouvenet, Adoration of the Magi

Suggested reading:
“May we give as the Savior gave. To give of oneself is a holy gift. We give as a remembrance of all the Savior has given. May we also give gifts that have eternal value, along with our gifts that eventually break or are forgotten. How much better the world would be if we all gave gifts of understanding and compassion, of service and friendship, of kindness and gentleness.

“As the Christmas season envelops us with all its glory, may we, as did the Wise Men, seek a bright, particular star to guide us in our celebration of the Savior’s birth. May we all make the journey to Bethlehem in spirit, taking with us a tender, caring heart as our gift to the Savior” (Thomas S. Monson, “The Real Joy of Christmas,” 2013 Christmas Devotional).

Other suggested story (time permitting): "The Other Wise Man" by Hendry Van Dyke

Suggested scripture:
“When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.

“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way.” (Matthew 2:9–12)

Suggested carols: “We Three Kings” and “With Wondering Awe”

Suggested song: Bizet, “March of the Three Kings (Farandole, from L'arlesienne Suite, no. 2)”

After the Christmas Season

From Christmas to Easter

Last night of lights at the Huntsman Home, January 6, 2022

The Boy in the Temple and the Man of the Gospels

"Reading and studying the stories of the Savior’s birth prepares us to celebrate the gift of the Babe of Bethlehem, helping us to know who this promised Savior was. If we follow our Christmas celebrations with the story of the Boy in the Temple and then continue to read about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ after the holiday is over, then we will come to know and celebrate the Man of the Gospels throughout the year, preparing us to learn from him and understand truly what he was born to do. In 1983, Gordon B. Hinckley emphasized the importance of reading and studying the Gospels and the Book of Mormon in order to better know the Savior: “Let us establish in our lives the habit of reading those things which will strengthen our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of the world. He is the pivotal figure of our theology and our faith. Every Latter-day Saint has the responsibility to know for himself or herself with a certainty beyond doubt that Jesus is the resurrected, living Son of the living God.”[1] President Hinckley then went on to recommend a program of reading “a chapter a day of the Gospels—that is, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in the Bible; and Third Nephi in the Book of Mormon, particularly beginning with the eleventh chapter of Third Nephi where is found the account of Christ’s visit among the Nephites.”[2]

Glad Tidings Every Day

"Continuing to study the scriptural testimonies of Jesus Christ can take the good tidings of the Savior’s birth and turn them into the daily glad tidings of a living, saving faith that will change both us and those around us. Speaking of this, President Monson has taught, 'Born in a stable, cradled in a manger, He came forth from heaven to live on earth as mortal man and to establish the kingdom of God. During his earthly ministry, He taught men the higher law. His glorious gospel reshaped the thinking of the world. He blessed the sick. He caused the lame to walk, the blind to see, the deaf to hear. He even raised the dead to life. To us, he has said, "Come, follow me."'[3] As we strive to follow the Savior, we can extend the spirit of love and giving that abounds so much at Christmastime and enjoy it every day as we strive to love and serve those whom he loves. Helping the needy, visiting the sick and lonely, and sharing time with loved ones bring joy into the Christmas season to be sure, but doing these things throughout the year truly blesses others and makes us more like Jesus Christ.

"When we learn about the Man of the Gospels and then follow his example, we are ultimately led to the Savior who gave himself that we might live. As the Book of Mormon so clearly teaches, the tidings of the Savior’s birth are integrally connected with the good news of what he accomplished in the final days of his life. Thus as we move in our hearts and minds from Christmas to Easter, each day can be filled with glad tidings of great joy as we celebrate the teachings, miracles, and mission of Jesus, culminating in his terrible suffering, his saving death, and his glorious resurrection." § (Good Tidings of Great Joy, 137)

"Keep Christmas with you All through the Year"

Keep Christmas with you,
All through the year.
When Christmas is over,
You can keep it near,
Think of this Christmas Day,
When Christmas is far away.

Keep Christmas with you
All through the year
When Christmas is over
Save some Christmas cheer.
These precious moments,
Hold them very dear,
And keep Christmas with you,
All through the year.

Christmas means the spirit of giving,
Peace and joy to you.
The goodness of loving,
The gladness of living,
These are Christmas too.

So, keep Christmas with you,
All through the year,
When Christmas is over,
Save some Christmas cheer.
These precious moments,
Hold them very dear,
And keep Christmas with you,
All through the year.

So keep Christmas with you,
All through the year.

[1] Gordon B. Hinckley, “Fear Not to Do Good,” Ensign, May 1983, 80.

[2] Hinckley, “Fear Not to Do Good,” 80.

[3] Monson, “In Search of the Christmas Spirit,” 8.

Looking Forward to the Easter Season

“This is the wondrous and true story of Christmas. The birth of Jesus in Bethlehem of Judea is preface. The three-year ministry of the Master is prologue. The magnificent substance of the story is His sacrifice, the totally selfless act of dying in pain on the cross of Calvary to atone for the sins of all of us. The epilogue is the miracle of the Resurrection, bringing the assurance that ‘as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive’ (1 Cor. 15:22). There would be no Christmas if there had not been Easter. The babe Jesus of Bethlehem would be but another baby without the redeeming Christ of Gethsemane and Calvary, and the triumphant fact of the Resurrection” (Gordon B. Hinckley, “The Wondrous and True Story of Christmas,” Ensign, Dec. 2000, 2)

3 comments:

RachelleOctober 24, 2016 at 2:46 PM
I have been thinking about Christmas today, and preparing an advent celebration for this year. As an LDS mom looking for resources, this post was exactly what I needed. I know this is a very old post, but it helped me today! Thank you!
Doric Property InspectionsNovember 5, 2022 at 4:54 AM
This blog is very helpful and informative for this particular topic. I appreciate your effort that has been taken to write this blog for us. Relationship Songs English
JettDecember 2, 2024 at 10:13 AM
Eric, Thank you for all this work you do. I hope you're enjoying Israel. My wife and I met while on the BYU Jerusalem Study Abroad decades ago. A favor to ask: you point to some of my stories. When you put this together I had it hosted on my Zenoch.org. Since then I've moved everything over to Christmasstories.org. For those stories that still point to Zenoch.org can you change the link? For example where it says https://zenoch.org/church-stuff/favorite-stories/christmas-stories/ - just replace that with https://christmasstories.org/. The rest of the link will be correct. Thanks

Christmas Resource Guide

Links and Jumps

Daily Devotionals for December

Christmas Is a Season

3 comments: