Monday, December 21, 2015

Mon, Dec 21, 2015 A Christmas Testimony...A testimony of Christ!

Merry Christmas!



Just over 2,000 years ago, a Savior was born. He is the greatest gift ever given. Our Father loves us so much that He gave us this gift (John 3:16). It is a gift of love, of peace, of joy, of eternal life. Family and friends...my heart is so full as I have this opportunity to testify of my Savior and friend, Jesus Christ. I want all of you to take time...to make time...to think of our Savior Jesus Christ this Christmas season. He is the greatest gift we have ever received. It has been an honor for me to give the gift of Christ this year. That gift that was given to us so long ago...we are still giving it today. Everyday, I have the opportunity to introduce people, our brothers and sisters, to Jesus Christ. I get to testify of His birth, His life, His Atonement. I have the opportunity to give hope and peace in a world that seems to only offer sadness and confusion. I have the opportunity to give God's love. I have the chance to ask people, "Did you know that 2000 years ago, a Savior was born for you." For me? How? Why? This is truly the best Christmas I have ever had and probably will ever have because I get to give THE GIFT. It is my prayer that each one of you will not just spare of few minutes to think of Him or to read the Christmas story...but to make it all about it. We are celebrating the birth of our King! For this season...don't think about yourself...your life...your school...work. But, think of Him. Think of Him who gave everything for YOU. I promise that as you do this, you will be filled with love and light. You will be filled with gratitude. God has given us so much. Absolutely everything. May we give this time to Him.
Something that I have loved so much this Christmas season is reading 3 Nephi 11 with the families and less active members in the ward here. It is so powerful to read of our Savior and feel of His perfect love. I have learned so much from reading this chapter! I know that Christ ministers to us individually. He loves us individually. I pray that each of you will have the opportunity to read this chapter and reflect on what it means for you!!!
Last of all...I am so excited because this morning I finished The Book of Mormon for the first time while being on my mission. It has been so special to me. I would love to share my testimony! I testify with all my heart, soul, and mind that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. It is true, I have asked sincerely and humbly this day and now the Spirit is burning in my soul. It is true. It has comforted and healed me, especially as I have labored among God's children in Canada. It has testified boldly to me of God's ways and His love. It has brought the Spirit to the lessons I have taught and learned. I know Jesus Christ. He is my friend, my Savior, my Redeemer...and OH! He is wonderful! He ministers to me individually and loves and prayers for me individually. I know I am a part of His church. I know Joseph Smith is a prophet of God; he restored Christ's church through the power of God. God lives and is loving. So loving that He sent His only Begotten Son so all might live. I feel the Spirit burning in me that this is true. This is my witness and testimony that it is true. I cannot deny it. In the name of Jesus Christ Amen.
Love,
Hermana Hoth