Joseph Smith's birth was vital to God's purposes

As Mormons join with all of Christendom in commemorating the birth of the Savior Jesus Christ this time of year, the thoughts of some might turn to observance of an event of lesser magnitude, but nevertheless vital to the unfolding of God's purposes among His children: The birth of Joseph Smith Jr., just two days before Christmas on Dec. 23, 1805, in Sharon, Vt.

In noting the birthday anniversary of the Prophet, some may feel uncomfortable, not wishing to detract in any way from the veneration due the Advent of the Christ in mortality and the commencement of His mortal mission. In truth, nothing should ever detract from that.

Viewed in proper perspective, however, the two December events complement rather than diminish one another.

Joseph, of course, was called to his mission by the Lord Himself, commencing in the early spring of 1820 with the 14-year-old prophet's theophany in a grove of trees near his home in Manchester, N.Y., wherein Joseph, like Moses before him, conversed with Deity face to face (see Joseph Smith — History 1:14-17 ; Exodus 33: 11; and Moses 1:31).

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This story is provided by the LDS Church News, an official publication of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is produced weekly by the Deseret News.