On the 25th of December, billions of people around the world will celebrate Christmas! For some, this will mean quality time with family and friends. For others, especially children, the eager anticipation of Santa Claus and the time-honored tradition of opening gifts under the Christmas tree. For many, it will be an opportunity to go to church and ponder the beautiful story of Joseph, Mary and the miraculous birth in Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago -- the birth of Jesus.

His life, death and resurrection are truly unique in the history of mankind. To most outside of our faith, he is seen as a great prophet. To us he is known as the literal Son of God -- the only Begotten! He has been called many names: the Prince of Peace, Emmanuel, Wonderful, Counselor. He lived, taught and gave his life for each of us. He overcame death so that we, too, can one day overcome it and live with him in the eternities. This is the ultimate gift of eternal life!

What will we give him in return this Christmas? In our family we have a tradition that my wife started several years ago. We have something called the "Jesus gift box." It is not ornate by any means, just a small box; and every Christmas we each place a small written note to him. It represents something that we are willing to give to him in order to become more like him.



What are you willing to give to him for Christmas? For some it might be a promise to be more loving, kind and generous. For others, to give up a destructive habit, an addiction or a more sinful behavior. For those not struggling with such weighty matters, it could simply be to become more diligent in praying or reading the scriptures. Perhaps being more of service to those less fortunate, or more honest in our dealings.

Everyone has to decide for himself or herself what would be the most meaningful gift. How about magnifying the gifts and talents we've been given and doing it in his name? Is there someone we have not forgiven or whose forgiveness we must seek? Can we be more missionary-minded, and by doing so bring others closer to Christ? Should we bear our testimony more often? Can we look for more peaceful resolutions to our conflicts and therefore become ambassadors for him? After all, he did tell us that "blessed are the peacemakers."  Just pick one gift -- one thing that we can change, but let that one become a beacon in our relationship with the Savior for the coming year.  Hopefully, with some effort that change will become a habit over time, and next year we can pick a new gift to give him.

With all the excitement of gifts, good food and time with our loved ones, it's easy to forget the real purpose of Christmas. We must remember to not only celebrate his birth but His gift to us. The best way to honor him is to strive to become a little more like him in the coming year. What will that be for you? What will you give Jesus for Christmas?

God bless you and Merry Christmas to you and your loved ones!