PASTORAL MESSAGE: Pause to Remember Christ

By BRANDON LEAVITT
President, Logandale Stake Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

At a Christmas season in which we witness turmoil in the world, may we pause to remember that His gospel is our only hope for peace on earth and goodwill toward men.

The message of an angel to the humble shepherds keeping watch over their flocks near Bethlehem was: “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” (Luke 2:10-11).

A multitude of the heavenly host suddenly joined the angel to praise God, saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” (Luke 2:14.)

I rejoice with you at this glorious time of year when all Christendom celebrates the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. I urge even greater commitment in putting Jesus Christ and his teachings first in our lives.

Let us emphasize the two great commandments of our Lord, to love God and our neighbor while always seeking out and sharing with each other “good tidings of great joy” as found in the fulness of Christ’s gospel

May we, at this Christmas season, rededicate ourselves to living the gospel more fully, enjoying His peace in our lives, and sharing the gospel more diligently with our brothers and sisters everywhere.