I hope your Christmas was merry and bright! Truly this will be one of the Christmases long remembered in my life. To me, there is no better way to celebrate this Christ centered season than spreading service, compassion, and "good will toward men." After all, as the carol goes, "Truly He taught us to love one another."
It is marvelous to see that there are still wise men and women seeking "The Messiah of the Jews" (JST Matt. 3:2). I met many of them this week. Some from Iran, some from Russia and Ukraine, and many from here in the bay area. I testify that the worship of the wise is just as tender and heartfelt today as it was in days of old.
I was blessed to bountifully receive this season and I am humbled by the loving support of so many. But most meaningful to me, even above generous gifts, was the time I was able to spend in grateful prayer and pondering concerning the matchless gift that our Heavenly Father gave us all in His Son. A most sweet and joyous spirit pervaded the proceedings of the day.
I testify that very long ago, in humble and impoverished circumstances, was born of divine and mortal heritage a baby, whose, "name was called Jesus." (Luke 2:21). I testify that Jesus was indeed the Messiah, Christ, and Savior prophesied of by all the Holy Prophets since the world began. I testify that He lived a perfect and sinless life, just as He was anointed to do, so that He could pay our debt to justice and encircle us in the arms of His mercy. I testify that He died and that He rose again and lives today.
As we commemorate the advent of Christ's birth it would do us well to remember that His meek and lowly arrival was only His first appearance. Let us remember and prepare for that great and last day when, "the desire of all nations shall come [again]" (Hag. 2:7).I testify that just as surely as the Messiah did come before He will return. Surely, at that final day it will be said as it was at first, "Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation" (Isa. 25:9).
Songs 
With You–Jonathan Ogden
Robbers–The 1975
Have a Happy New Year,
I love you.
Elder Jacob Winegar
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