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Because of the Messiah in a Manger
Born on Christmas Day, Brad Wilcox has always had a special love for Christmas. Everyone knows that the season has become commercialized and saturated by the demands of political correctness. But, as Brad writes, "No matter how many try to take Christ out of Christmas...it will always and forever be about the Messiah in a manger". Because of the Messiah in a manger, we can feel and share His pure love. Because of Him, we have access to grace, immortality, and eternal life. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we follow the star, hear the angels sing, and celebrate the Light of the World at Christmas and always. This warm, conversational book will enhance your celebration of the Christmas season as you discover ways Christ began to fulfill His divine mission right from the moment of His humble birth. Whether a gift to a loved one or to yourself, this is the perfect read to curl up by the fire and embrace the Christmas spirit. Join with shepherds, wise men, angels, and other witnesses throughout the ages who have testified of the Christ in a cradle, the Messiah in a manger.
160 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
November 21, 2018
One of the best little books about Christmas and all of the symbolism that comes with the season that I've read in a long time. I work in a bookstore and I've been recommending this to everyone.
January 9, 2019
Even though Christmas has passed I still loved listening to this book. Plan to relisten in December as it is such a great book about the Saviour.
Source: Deseret Bookshelf Audio
Source: Deseret Bookshelf Audio
December 25, 2018
Beautiful! I listened to this while I was finishing some sewing projects today. It was a perfect day to listen and think about my Savior and the many ways His birth has impacted my life, my loved ones’ lives as well as my friends and everyone who lives now, has lived and will live!
If you are looking for a great book to bring a greater focus of Christ into your life, for Christmas time and anytime of the year, I highly recommend this one. The author is the narrator, which I felt gave it a stronger connection as a listener to the audiobook version. If you’re looking for a Christmas gift for those who love to read about Christ, this is a fabulous one to share. I’m definitely going to use it as a gift in the future.
Content: Christian nonfiction
I listened through Deseret Bookshelf
Happy Reading!!!
If you are looking for a great book to bring a greater focus of Christ into your life, for Christmas time and anytime of the year, I highly recommend this one. The author is the narrator, which I felt gave it a stronger connection as a listener to the audiobook version. If you’re looking for a Christmas gift for those who love to read about Christ, this is a fabulous one to share. I’m definitely going to use it as a gift in the future.
Content: Christian nonfiction
I listened through Deseret Bookshelf
Happy Reading!!!
December 23, 2018
Amazing book!! If you need something to remind you of the reason for the season this book with do it. I highly recommend.
December 14, 2023
One of the best Christmas books I have ever read.
December 27, 2019
The perfect read to focus on the true meaning of Christmas.
December 6, 2018
This is an awesome quick read, especially this time of year.
December 25, 2019
I greatly enjoyed the insights in this book. I learned more about the star of Bethlehem, the irreplaceable role of Mary, and the promises we make at the sacrament. Brother Wilcox also related so many things to our circumstances, applying principles we can learn from the nativity, and he showed how much we need the Savior. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we have prophets, revelation, temples, covenants, missionaries, salvation, and exaltation. Christ's influence touches everything in our lives!
June 25, 2019
I loved the insights that Brad Wilcox gives me. Things such as: In Silent Night the line, "Son of God, love's pure light." I have always just sung it straight but there is a apostrophe in the word love that changes the sentences meaning. As in Son of God IS love' pure light. Another good one is the Wise Men. When they left Jesus they returned another way. Could we look at this as seeing the Savior of the world these men were changed when they went back. They were different men now. Loved it.
February 22, 2019
You'll never look at the symbols of Christmas the same way after reading this book. Amazing insights. Such an enjoyable read!
December 16, 2024
Loved this book. I want to read this every December! I felt the spirit so strongly.
December 19, 2019
A wonderful book to help focus on Jesus Christ at Christmas time, and to be reminded about how richly blessed we are because of the birth of that holy and precious baby.
December 7, 2018
I’m always a fan of Brad Wilcox. He has the kindest demeanor and spirit about him and you can literally feel his love in the pages of his books. His love comes from his love for the Savior and his knowledge that we are all children of a loving Heavenly Father. This book was no different. I loved listening to the audiobook version as his emotion was portrayed in his voice. A great read for all at Christmas time. I highly recommend it!
December 5, 2019
Brother Wilcox provides many fascinating insights into Jesus' birth. I especially loved: (1) the chapter about the Trees of Christmas; (2) the insight that because God could not give everyone the knowledge of the Savior, He gave them a mother; (3) that "NOEL" can remind us to "Know well" the Savior; (4) that there is a way to know if we would have accepted Jesus when he came; and (5) my very favorite--an insight found on page 74. (You'll have to read the book.) Packed with many thought-provoking details I had previously been unaware of, I found this book delightful and inspirational for the Christmas season.
December 28, 2020
I loved reading this book the week of Christmas as it helped me more fully to get into the spirit of Christmas. This books goes into the symbolism of Christmas and gives insights on the people in the nativity. It includes personal stories and application and I love Brad’s sense of humor and heartwarming stories.
Here are my notes from the book with highlights:
Christ did not perform the atonement to free us from suffering but to be able to be with us in our suffering. The goal is that we would be comforted, not comfortable. Progress and growth are seldom comfortable, but they are always worth it.”xiii
The tradition of Christmas trees began in Germany, where Christians used the evergreen fields trees as a symbol of Christ’s gift of everlasting life. 21
In the garden of gethsemane, olive trees surrounded the savior as he prayed.( There he suffered for every pain, sickness, sin, affliction). Olive trees are evergreen. They don’t lose their leaves and when they are cut down, new branches grow from the roots. As we make and renew covenants with Christ, our discipleship is evergreen. 21
Mary-not every young woman could’ve stood up to the gossip and derision that Surely accompanied the unique circumstances surrounding Christ birth. Mary had to be a strong girl to make the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem when she was nine months pregnant. Her strength was needed again when she and Joseph escaped to Egypt in order to keep Jesus safe from Herod . Living in a different country and raising her son far from home and family could not have been easy for her. Mary was an extraordinary woman.28
1 nephi 11:18-21) in the spirit was trying to teach Nephi about the love of God, he showed him a woman!
“No love in mortality comes closer to approximating the pure love of Jesus Christ than the selfless love a devoted mother has her child.“ Jeffrey R Holland page 28
Mothers love leads us to the Savior. God knew there would be lots of people born on this earth with no awareness of Jesus Christ, that millions would have to wait until the spirit world to learn about the Savior. Since everyone could not be given a knowledge of the Savior, God gave every soul a mother. Maybe he hoped that through some of these mothers, he could give all his children a taste of the selfless sacrifice and perfect love of Christ. Perhaps it is through the love of good mothers that God prepares all of his children to one day recognize and except the love of their good Savior. 29
Manger comes from the French verb manger which means “to eat“. Would was too scarce in the desert climate of the holy land to be used for animals so it was probably made of stone. Many mother swaddled their babies, but they didn’t leave them in majors. This would have been a sure sign to the shepherds that they had found Jesus. Mary and Joseph lead Christ in a trough From which animals eat and we’re foreshadowing what Christ himself would later teach in John 6:56 he that Eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood dwelleth in me and I in him.’ Bethlehem means “house of bread.” It was also Jerusalem’s water source. What a fitting place for the birth of the” bread of life” John 6:35 and “living water” John 4:10. Justice animals go to the manger for physical food, we go to the savior for spiritual nourishment. We need never go hungry. We need never thirst. We need only come and partake. That is the invitation of Christ. That is the invitation of Christmas. 34-35
The Greek word Kataluma, translated as “upper room“ in the description of the last supper Mark 14:15, was the exact same word translated as “inn“ in Luke too. In both cases, it could have been translated as “guestroom“. Since Bethlehem was not along a regular trade route, then we read about and look to was probably not a large room full of strangers or a public building for wealthy travelers. Instead, it was probably a guestroom in the home of one of Joseph’s‘s relatives. And the census was going on. The small town was crowded with visitors who were all related. No wonder guest rooms were full to overflowing. Perhaps “no room for them in the inn“ was not so much a statement about people‘s lack of hospitality as it was a statement of fact.
Do you are you professor of ancient scripture Tyler Griffin has suggested that maybe these relatives had done the math and realized at the time of Mary’s delivery was not driving with the time of her marriage. Maybe their rejection was in judgment and condemnation. After all, wouldn’t relatives make room for a family member and labor even if it meant that other relatives who needs or less pressing had to vacate the guestroom? In the Joseph Smith translation of the Bible, the prophet changed in to inns. Making the word plural indicated that this couple was being rejected by everyone.36
Shepherds- at night shepherds brought flocks together to protect them from wolves, jackals, and robbers. Some of the caves held over 200 sheep. Several Shepherd‘s would work together to block the front of a cave with stones, leaving only a narrow entrance the rich one or two sheep could pass at a time. The shepherds would then lead the sheep into the fold and rotate guard duty by taking turns sitting so it’s to block the entrance to the cave while the other slept. The shepherd on duty didn’t just guard the door. He became the door. No wonder the Savior said, “I am the door of the sheep and he didn’t enter not by the door into the sheepfold the same is a thief” John 10: 7 & 1
by morning, sheep from different flocks had mixed together. No one knew which she belongs to which shepherd until the shepherds took turns standing at the entrance and whistling are calling in their own distinct ways. Then each shepherds sheep would recognize the call and come forward. Has she passed through the narrow entrance, the shepherd would count them and make sure none was missed. Remember that the Savior said, “my sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me“ John 10:27 pg 49
HEARING THE ANGELS SONG-i’ve always believed that some of God‘s tenderest of tender mercies come to those who are willing to sacrifice a little comfort and convenience to keep watch over his flock. 62
Many Christians base their faith on the Bible alone. For them, it is their religion. But the Bible is not religion. It is a sacred record of people who has religion. We cannot call them Bible-based believers, because they did not have the Bible as we have it today. They believed because they had prophets and apostles who were Alive, and that is what Latter Day Saints have in addition to the Bible. -106
Here are my notes from the book with highlights:
Christ did not perform the atonement to free us from suffering but to be able to be with us in our suffering. The goal is that we would be comforted, not comfortable. Progress and growth are seldom comfortable, but they are always worth it.”xiii
The tradition of Christmas trees began in Germany, where Christians used the evergreen fields trees as a symbol of Christ’s gift of everlasting life. 21
In the garden of gethsemane, olive trees surrounded the savior as he prayed.( There he suffered for every pain, sickness, sin, affliction). Olive trees are evergreen. They don’t lose their leaves and when they are cut down, new branches grow from the roots. As we make and renew covenants with Christ, our discipleship is evergreen. 21
Mary-not every young woman could’ve stood up to the gossip and derision that Surely accompanied the unique circumstances surrounding Christ birth. Mary had to be a strong girl to make the trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem when she was nine months pregnant. Her strength was needed again when she and Joseph escaped to Egypt in order to keep Jesus safe from Herod . Living in a different country and raising her son far from home and family could not have been easy for her. Mary was an extraordinary woman.28
1 nephi 11:18-21) in the spirit was trying to teach Nephi about the love of God, he showed him a woman!
“No love in mortality comes closer to approximating the pure love of Jesus Christ than the selfless love a devoted mother has her child.“ Jeffrey R Holland page 28
Mothers love leads us to the Savior. God knew there would be lots of people born on this earth with no awareness of Jesus Christ, that millions would have to wait until the spirit world to learn about the Savior. Since everyone could not be given a knowledge of the Savior, God gave every soul a mother. Maybe he hoped that through some of these mothers, he could give all his children a taste of the selfless sacrifice and perfect love of Christ. Perhaps it is through the love of good mothers that God prepares all of his children to one day recognize and except the love of their good Savior. 29
Manger comes from the French verb manger which means “to eat“. Would was too scarce in the desert climate of the holy land to be used for animals so it was probably made of stone. Many mother swaddled their babies, but they didn’t leave them in majors. This would have been a sure sign to the shepherds that they had found Jesus. Mary and Joseph lead Christ in a trough From which animals eat and we’re foreshadowing what Christ himself would later teach in John 6:56 he that Eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood dwelleth in me and I in him.’ Bethlehem means “house of bread.” It was also Jerusalem’s water source. What a fitting place for the birth of the” bread of life” John 6:35 and “living water” John 4:10. Justice animals go to the manger for physical food, we go to the savior for spiritual nourishment. We need never go hungry. We need never thirst. We need only come and partake. That is the invitation of Christ. That is the invitation of Christmas. 34-35
The Greek word Kataluma, translated as “upper room“ in the description of the last supper Mark 14:15, was the exact same word translated as “inn“ in Luke too. In both cases, it could have been translated as “guestroom“. Since Bethlehem was not along a regular trade route, then we read about and look to was probably not a large room full of strangers or a public building for wealthy travelers. Instead, it was probably a guestroom in the home of one of Joseph’s‘s relatives. And the census was going on. The small town was crowded with visitors who were all related. No wonder guest rooms were full to overflowing. Perhaps “no room for them in the inn“ was not so much a statement about people‘s lack of hospitality as it was a statement of fact.
Do you are you professor of ancient scripture Tyler Griffin has suggested that maybe these relatives had done the math and realized at the time of Mary’s delivery was not driving with the time of her marriage. Maybe their rejection was in judgment and condemnation. After all, wouldn’t relatives make room for a family member and labor even if it meant that other relatives who needs or less pressing had to vacate the guestroom? In the Joseph Smith translation of the Bible, the prophet changed in to inns. Making the word plural indicated that this couple was being rejected by everyone.36
Shepherds- at night shepherds brought flocks together to protect them from wolves, jackals, and robbers. Some of the caves held over 200 sheep. Several Shepherd‘s would work together to block the front of a cave with stones, leaving only a narrow entrance the rich one or two sheep could pass at a time. The shepherds would then lead the sheep into the fold and rotate guard duty by taking turns sitting so it’s to block the entrance to the cave while the other slept. The shepherd on duty didn’t just guard the door. He became the door. No wonder the Savior said, “I am the door of the sheep and he didn’t enter not by the door into the sheepfold the same is a thief” John 10: 7 & 1
by morning, sheep from different flocks had mixed together. No one knew which she belongs to which shepherd until the shepherds took turns standing at the entrance and whistling are calling in their own distinct ways. Then each shepherds sheep would recognize the call and come forward. Has she passed through the narrow entrance, the shepherd would count them and make sure none was missed. Remember that the Savior said, “my sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me“ John 10:27 pg 49
HEARING THE ANGELS SONG-i’ve always believed that some of God‘s tenderest of tender mercies come to those who are willing to sacrifice a little comfort and convenience to keep watch over his flock. 62
Many Christians base their faith on the Bible alone. For them, it is their religion. But the Bible is not religion. It is a sacred record of people who has religion. We cannot call them Bible-based believers, because they did not have the Bible as we have it today. They believed because they had prophets and apostles who were Alive, and that is what Latter Day Saints have in addition to the Bible. -106
March 20, 2019
There are some sweet ideas and stories here about Christmas and Christ and the power that He has to change our lives. Because He came to earth, so humbly, and fulfilled His mission, our lives have meaning, purpose, direction, hope. Through some of the symbols and stories and characters of the Christmas story and others who strive to follow Him we can also learn to be better.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
"'Christmas is not your birthday (p. ix)!'"
"Mortality was Plan A, not Plan B. The Atonement of Christ was not a last-ditch attempt to salvage the wreckage Adam and Eve had made of the world (p. xii)."
"Freedom also offered the opportunity for learning. God made suffering a required course in life, but growth had to be an elective (p. xii)."
"'When the focus of our lives is on God's plan of salvation...and Jesus Christ and His gospel, we can feel joy regardless of what is happening--or not happening--in our lives. Joy comes from and because of Him. He is the source of all joy (Russell M. Nelson, p. xiii).'"
"The Atonement of Christ is not only about overcoming death and sin. The Lord also carried our pains, sicknesses, mistakes, and heartaches. Because He descended below them all, He can offer consolation and comfort during challenges, perspective and peace during trials, and divine assistance through it all (p. xiii)."
"'Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest' (Matthew 11:28, p. xv)."
"In all the festive fun, let us not forget the lights are meant to remind us of Christ, who is the Light of the World.... It is Christ who gives 'light to every man that cometh into the world (D&C 84:46, p. 4).'"
"The actual day when daylight is the shortest usually happens between December 20th and 23rd. That means that by the 24th and 25th when we celebrate Christmas, in the northern hemisphere, light has begun to fill the world once again (p. 6)."
"'As we covenant with the Lord through baptism, confirmation, the sacrament, and other ordinances, we commit to live our lives in harmony with His gospel. He covenants with us to fill our lives with spiritual light and abundant life (Brent L. Top, p. 8).'"
"Any gift is beautiful when it is given with love (p. 13)."
"Christ can change and transform us. 'Be not conformed to this world...but be ye transformed (Romans 12:2, p. 14).'"
"'The Lord loves each of us too much to merely let us go on being what we now are, for He knows what we have the possibility to become (Neal A. Maxwell, p. 14).'"
"I can't make such a change happen on my own. I am totally dependent on my Savior to squeeze selfishness out of me and replace it with His charity (p. 17)."
"'We cannot be content to remain as we are but must be moving constantly toward 'the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ' (Ephesians 4:13). (D. Todd Christofferson, p. 17)'"
"How happy it must have made Noah, the very prophet who saw the destruction of the world, to be able to announce the salvation of the world (p. 30)."
"'The nature of [Mary's] spirit and the depth of her preparation were revealed in a response that shows both innocence and maturity: 'Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to they word' (Luke 1:38). (Jeffrey R. Holland, p. 31)'"
"Because of the Messiah who condescended to be born in a manger, we were offered salvation. However, that could not have happened without the meekness and righteous choice of His mother (p. 31)."
"Sometimes in Jewish weddings, the hands of the couple are tied loosely together with cloth bands that have been embroidered with symbols or tokens representing their family histories. That's how we got the saying, 'Tying the knot.' Could these very bands used at the wedding also be used by the couple to fasten the swaddling clothes of their new born children (p. 33)?"
"Bethlehem means 'House of Bread.' It was also Jerusalem's water source. What a fitting place for the birth of the 'bread of life' (John 6:35) and 'living water' (John 4:10) (p. 34)."
"In the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible, the Prophet changed inn to inns. Making the world plural indicated that this couple was being rejected by everyone. Maybe the words in Luke 2:7 that tell the true story are for them--there was 'no room for them in the inns.' Whatever the case, Mary and Joseph prepared to deliver a baby in a stable--probably a cave--used for animals (p. 36)."
"We...need to recognize Christ and find room for Him. We will not know Him from tokens embroidered on swaddling bands but by the tokens in His hands and feet... We will not find Him in a stone manger but at the head of the Church... We not only need to make room for Him in our homes but in our hearts (p. 37)."
"It is one thing to believe in God and another thing to know Him (p. 40)."
"'Latter-day Saints believe that God is visible and knowable. He is as close to us as we will allow Him to be. Not only are we the same species, but He is the literal Father of our spirits and we are His beloved children (Anthony Sweat, p. 42).'"
"'The shepherd on duty didn't just guard the door. He became the door (p. 49).'"
"Flies were not dangerous like wolves and hyenas, but they constantly irritated the sheep. Those pesky insects would hover around the poor animals' faces and land on their eyes and noses until the only way the sheep could find relief was by rubbing their heads against trees and rocks. This only caused more wounds, which attracted more flies, and the sheep would get caught in a vicious cycle. Relief came only when a caring shepherd would put olive oil on a piece of cloth and dab it against the animals' faces. The oil soothed the self-inflicted wounds and acted as a fly repellant. David may have been alluding to this practice when he wrote of his kind shepherd, 'Thou anointest my head with oil' (Psalm 23:5, p. 50)."
"God gave porcupines quills and cheetahs speed, but sheep he left vulnerable. They are perfect symbols for humanity without the Lord.... Truly we are helpless without our Savior. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we ave a Shepherd who leads us into the fold and makes Himself the gate. He owns us and is not a hireling. We are His, and He knows us by name. He does not run away when danger comes. He protects us with His rod and guides us with His staff. When we fall, He lifts us up and anoints our wounds with oil (p. 51)."
"With all of God's numberless worlds filled with numberless children, who notices sheep number 32 on stage left?.... We can be confident that a God who can created and populate worlds has the power to govern those worlds (p. 53)."
"Christ cares for all His lambs and lovingly allows us to engage with Him in caring for each other (p. 55)."
"Christ was asking Peter--and all of us--to nourish, but also to tend and protect His sheep and lambs (p. 57)."
"'We may not see the finger of the Lord as did the Brother of Jared, but we can certainly see His fingerprints (Emily Freeman, p. 60).'"
"Because of the Messiah in the manger, we are never just part of a crowd or congregation. We are individuals... 'The story of Jesus teaching Peter to feed His lambs is not a story about a flock. Rather, it is a story about millions and tens of millions and hundreds of millions of ones--because the worth of souls is great in the sight of God (David A. Bednar, p. 60).'"
"I've always believed that some of God's tenderest of tender mercies come to those who are willing to sacrifice a little comfort and convenience to keep watch over His flock (p. 62)."
"Joseph Smith taught that those who do work in behalf of the departed will one day greet those they have served, at which time those souls will 'fall at the feet of those who [have] done their work, kiss their feet, embrace their knees and manifest the most exquisite gratitude (p. 66).'"
"'I immediately led her to the records she sought. I was the only one who knew where to find the name, because even the archivist would not have thought to look in those records.' Bob and Kenalou felt they had witnessed a miracle. They heart a song that only angels could have orchestrated because they were 'keeping watch over their flock' (Luke 2:8, p. 67)."
"When Brigham Young was explaining the importance of the work of the Church, he declared, 'All the Angels in heaven are looking at this little handful of people.' Truly, we are often blessed to hear angelic songs that others don't hear and recognize miracles that others overlook (p. 69)."
"'The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen' (Luke 2:17, 20). Because of the Messiah in the manger, we can do the same (p. 70)."
"Many people see temples as beautiful buildings all lit up at night, but those who are wise see holy beacons that guide them to the Savior (p. 76)."
"'Elder Wilcox, if some Chileans had not sacrificed to go to Brazil, how would God have ever known we loved the temple enough to give us our own?... Brothers and sisters, the blessings awaiting you in the temple are worth any sacrifice (p. 78).'"
"If we love the temple today, we would have loved Christ in His day. If we seek to go to the temple, we would have sought to be with Christ (p. 80)."
"When we encounter Christ, we are meat to be changed. We are meant to return to heaven another way (p. 83)."
"Because of the Messiah in a manger, we can enter a covenant relationship with Him that allows us to experience 'more holiness...more strivings within, more patience in suff'ring, more sorrow for sin, more faith... joy... purpose... gratitude... purity... [and] strength... more freedom from earth-stains, more longing for home.' Because of the Messiah in a manger, we, like the wise men, can go home another way (p. 87)."
"For them, God's love was--literally--as clear as day (p. 96)."
"Elder David A. Bednar wrote, 'The day Jesus was born was a day of deliverance for the believers in the New World. Light as a sign of the Savior's birth literally saved their lives.' This was an incredible foreshadowing of what Christ would do for all people. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we are all saved. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we can all know the wonder of receiving the greatest gift ever (p. 96)."
"In a world where many no longer believe in God, the fact that He sent angels to both Mary and Joseph Smith seems like strong evidence that God still believes in us!... He still loves the world enough to send Him again in our day. The Messiah who came to a manger in Bethlehem is the same one who came to a grove in Palmyra and a temple in Kirtland (p. 101)."
"'The Savior has not had among mortals a more faithful witness, a more obedient disciple, a more loyal advocate than Joseph Smith (D. Todd Christofferson, p. 102).'"
"People in the Bible did not say, 'Turn to John 3:5.' They turned directly to John. People in the Bible did not say, 'Turn to the epistles of Paul.' They turned to Paul. Today, Latter-day Saints consider themselves blessed because we can also turn to living apostles and prophets (p. 106)."
"As we come to know Christ, 'we discover he is more than the babe in Bethlehem, more than the carpenter's son, more than the greatest teacher ever to live. We come to know him as the Son of God (Thomas S. Monson, p. 111).'"
"Because of the Messiah in the manger, we have prophets. In the past, present, and future, we have special messengers who help us see clearly and make positive changes (p. 112)."
"Christmasing includes a lot of good, old-fashioned, sincere, selfless service (p. 113)."
"The ward members ended up helping a family in need, but they also ended up serving each other along the way.... Our service is a natural and inevitable outgrowth of our faith. We don't do sub-for-Santa projects because we are earning God's grace, but because we are returning grace for grace and emulating our Savior (p. 114)."
"An inmate wanted to contribute. Even though his job in the prison paid only pennies an hour--enough to buy a soda now and then--he gave up his sodas and sent the little bit he saved each month to help with the charity. His example inspired other inmates to donate as well.... Yet another inmate told me of the thousands of names he had indexed and how grateful he was to be able to help with family history work. He was not just counting down the days until his release. He was making those days count (p. 116)."
"'If you think about it, Christ had a death sentence too, but He didn't let it stop Him from serving (p. 119).'"
"Because of the Messiah in the manger, we have the greatest example of someone who turned outward in service even in the most difficult circumstances. We can follow the example of our Lord and service. Let's get Sundaying! Let's get Christmasing (p. 121)!"
"The Son of God is love's pure light (p. 128)."
"Because of the Messiah in the manger, people matter. Kindness and respect matter. Love matters (p. 129)."
Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
"'Christmas is not your birthday (p. ix)!'"
"Mortality was Plan A, not Plan B. The Atonement of Christ was not a last-ditch attempt to salvage the wreckage Adam and Eve had made of the world (p. xii)."
"Freedom also offered the opportunity for learning. God made suffering a required course in life, but growth had to be an elective (p. xii)."
"'When the focus of our lives is on God's plan of salvation...and Jesus Christ and His gospel, we can feel joy regardless of what is happening--or not happening--in our lives. Joy comes from and because of Him. He is the source of all joy (Russell M. Nelson, p. xiii).'"
"The Atonement of Christ is not only about overcoming death and sin. The Lord also carried our pains, sicknesses, mistakes, and heartaches. Because He descended below them all, He can offer consolation and comfort during challenges, perspective and peace during trials, and divine assistance through it all (p. xiii)."
"'Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest' (Matthew 11:28, p. xv)."
"In all the festive fun, let us not forget the lights are meant to remind us of Christ, who is the Light of the World.... It is Christ who gives 'light to every man that cometh into the world (D&C 84:46, p. 4).'"
"The actual day when daylight is the shortest usually happens between December 20th and 23rd. That means that by the 24th and 25th when we celebrate Christmas, in the northern hemisphere, light has begun to fill the world once again (p. 6)."
"'As we covenant with the Lord through baptism, confirmation, the sacrament, and other ordinances, we commit to live our lives in harmony with His gospel. He covenants with us to fill our lives with spiritual light and abundant life (Brent L. Top, p. 8).'"
"Any gift is beautiful when it is given with love (p. 13)."
"Christ can change and transform us. 'Be not conformed to this world...but be ye transformed (Romans 12:2, p. 14).'"
"'The Lord loves each of us too much to merely let us go on being what we now are, for He knows what we have the possibility to become (Neal A. Maxwell, p. 14).'"
"I can't make such a change happen on my own. I am totally dependent on my Savior to squeeze selfishness out of me and replace it with His charity (p. 17)."
"'We cannot be content to remain as we are but must be moving constantly toward 'the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ' (Ephesians 4:13). (D. Todd Christofferson, p. 17)'"
"How happy it must have made Noah, the very prophet who saw the destruction of the world, to be able to announce the salvation of the world (p. 30)."
"'The nature of [Mary's] spirit and the depth of her preparation were revealed in a response that shows both innocence and maturity: 'Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to they word' (Luke 1:38). (Jeffrey R. Holland, p. 31)'"
"Because of the Messiah who condescended to be born in a manger, we were offered salvation. However, that could not have happened without the meekness and righteous choice of His mother (p. 31)."
"Sometimes in Jewish weddings, the hands of the couple are tied loosely together with cloth bands that have been embroidered with symbols or tokens representing their family histories. That's how we got the saying, 'Tying the knot.' Could these very bands used at the wedding also be used by the couple to fasten the swaddling clothes of their new born children (p. 33)?"
"Bethlehem means 'House of Bread.' It was also Jerusalem's water source. What a fitting place for the birth of the 'bread of life' (John 6:35) and 'living water' (John 4:10) (p. 34)."
"In the Joseph Smith Translation of the Bible, the Prophet changed inn to inns. Making the world plural indicated that this couple was being rejected by everyone. Maybe the words in Luke 2:7 that tell the true story are for them--there was 'no room for them in the inns.' Whatever the case, Mary and Joseph prepared to deliver a baby in a stable--probably a cave--used for animals (p. 36)."
"We...need to recognize Christ and find room for Him. We will not know Him from tokens embroidered on swaddling bands but by the tokens in His hands and feet... We will not find Him in a stone manger but at the head of the Church... We not only need to make room for Him in our homes but in our hearts (p. 37)."
"It is one thing to believe in God and another thing to know Him (p. 40)."
"'Latter-day Saints believe that God is visible and knowable. He is as close to us as we will allow Him to be. Not only are we the same species, but He is the literal Father of our spirits and we are His beloved children (Anthony Sweat, p. 42).'"
"'The shepherd on duty didn't just guard the door. He became the door (p. 49).'"
"Flies were not dangerous like wolves and hyenas, but they constantly irritated the sheep. Those pesky insects would hover around the poor animals' faces and land on their eyes and noses until the only way the sheep could find relief was by rubbing their heads against trees and rocks. This only caused more wounds, which attracted more flies, and the sheep would get caught in a vicious cycle. Relief came only when a caring shepherd would put olive oil on a piece of cloth and dab it against the animals' faces. The oil soothed the self-inflicted wounds and acted as a fly repellant. David may have been alluding to this practice when he wrote of his kind shepherd, 'Thou anointest my head with oil' (Psalm 23:5, p. 50)."
"God gave porcupines quills and cheetahs speed, but sheep he left vulnerable. They are perfect symbols for humanity without the Lord.... Truly we are helpless without our Savior. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we ave a Shepherd who leads us into the fold and makes Himself the gate. He owns us and is not a hireling. We are His, and He knows us by name. He does not run away when danger comes. He protects us with His rod and guides us with His staff. When we fall, He lifts us up and anoints our wounds with oil (p. 51)."
"With all of God's numberless worlds filled with numberless children, who notices sheep number 32 on stage left?.... We can be confident that a God who can created and populate worlds has the power to govern those worlds (p. 53)."
"Christ cares for all His lambs and lovingly allows us to engage with Him in caring for each other (p. 55)."
"Christ was asking Peter--and all of us--to nourish, but also to tend and protect His sheep and lambs (p. 57)."
"'We may not see the finger of the Lord as did the Brother of Jared, but we can certainly see His fingerprints (Emily Freeman, p. 60).'"
"Because of the Messiah in the manger, we are never just part of a crowd or congregation. We are individuals... 'The story of Jesus teaching Peter to feed His lambs is not a story about a flock. Rather, it is a story about millions and tens of millions and hundreds of millions of ones--because the worth of souls is great in the sight of God (David A. Bednar, p. 60).'"
"I've always believed that some of God's tenderest of tender mercies come to those who are willing to sacrifice a little comfort and convenience to keep watch over His flock (p. 62)."
"Joseph Smith taught that those who do work in behalf of the departed will one day greet those they have served, at which time those souls will 'fall at the feet of those who [have] done their work, kiss their feet, embrace their knees and manifest the most exquisite gratitude (p. 66).'"
"'I immediately led her to the records she sought. I was the only one who knew where to find the name, because even the archivist would not have thought to look in those records.' Bob and Kenalou felt they had witnessed a miracle. They heart a song that only angels could have orchestrated because they were 'keeping watch over their flock' (Luke 2:8, p. 67)."
"When Brigham Young was explaining the importance of the work of the Church, he declared, 'All the Angels in heaven are looking at this little handful of people.' Truly, we are often blessed to hear angelic songs that others don't hear and recognize miracles that others overlook (p. 69)."
"'The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen' (Luke 2:17, 20). Because of the Messiah in the manger, we can do the same (p. 70)."
"Many people see temples as beautiful buildings all lit up at night, but those who are wise see holy beacons that guide them to the Savior (p. 76)."
"'Elder Wilcox, if some Chileans had not sacrificed to go to Brazil, how would God have ever known we loved the temple enough to give us our own?... Brothers and sisters, the blessings awaiting you in the temple are worth any sacrifice (p. 78).'"
"If we love the temple today, we would have loved Christ in His day. If we seek to go to the temple, we would have sought to be with Christ (p. 80)."
"When we encounter Christ, we are meat to be changed. We are meant to return to heaven another way (p. 83)."
"Because of the Messiah in a manger, we can enter a covenant relationship with Him that allows us to experience 'more holiness...more strivings within, more patience in suff'ring, more sorrow for sin, more faith... joy... purpose... gratitude... purity... [and] strength... more freedom from earth-stains, more longing for home.' Because of the Messiah in a manger, we, like the wise men, can go home another way (p. 87)."
"For them, God's love was--literally--as clear as day (p. 96)."
"Elder David A. Bednar wrote, 'The day Jesus was born was a day of deliverance for the believers in the New World. Light as a sign of the Savior's birth literally saved their lives.' This was an incredible foreshadowing of what Christ would do for all people. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we are all saved. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we can all know the wonder of receiving the greatest gift ever (p. 96)."
"In a world where many no longer believe in God, the fact that He sent angels to both Mary and Joseph Smith seems like strong evidence that God still believes in us!... He still loves the world enough to send Him again in our day. The Messiah who came to a manger in Bethlehem is the same one who came to a grove in Palmyra and a temple in Kirtland (p. 101)."
"'The Savior has not had among mortals a more faithful witness, a more obedient disciple, a more loyal advocate than Joseph Smith (D. Todd Christofferson, p. 102).'"
"People in the Bible did not say, 'Turn to John 3:5.' They turned directly to John. People in the Bible did not say, 'Turn to the epistles of Paul.' They turned to Paul. Today, Latter-day Saints consider themselves blessed because we can also turn to living apostles and prophets (p. 106)."
"As we come to know Christ, 'we discover he is more than the babe in Bethlehem, more than the carpenter's son, more than the greatest teacher ever to live. We come to know him as the Son of God (Thomas S. Monson, p. 111).'"
"Because of the Messiah in the manger, we have prophets. In the past, present, and future, we have special messengers who help us see clearly and make positive changes (p. 112)."
"Christmasing includes a lot of good, old-fashioned, sincere, selfless service (p. 113)."
"The ward members ended up helping a family in need, but they also ended up serving each other along the way.... Our service is a natural and inevitable outgrowth of our faith. We don't do sub-for-Santa projects because we are earning God's grace, but because we are returning grace for grace and emulating our Savior (p. 114)."
"An inmate wanted to contribute. Even though his job in the prison paid only pennies an hour--enough to buy a soda now and then--he gave up his sodas and sent the little bit he saved each month to help with the charity. His example inspired other inmates to donate as well.... Yet another inmate told me of the thousands of names he had indexed and how grateful he was to be able to help with family history work. He was not just counting down the days until his release. He was making those days count (p. 116)."
"'If you think about it, Christ had a death sentence too, but He didn't let it stop Him from serving (p. 119).'"
"Because of the Messiah in the manger, we have the greatest example of someone who turned outward in service even in the most difficult circumstances. We can follow the example of our Lord and service. Let's get Sundaying! Let's get Christmasing (p. 121)!"
"The Son of God is love's pure light (p. 128)."
"Because of the Messiah in the manger, people matter. Kindness and respect matter. Love matters (p. 129)."
January 28, 2023
Great quick read for getting in the Christmas spirit.
December 31, 2018
Brother Brad Wilcox brings Christmas to life in this brief highlight of the many cherished aspects of this sacred holiday. Brad has such a simple style that makes the gospel very plain and precious. This style comes out in a rich way in this book on our Savior Jesus Christ and his beloved birth. In his writing we find an increased understanding of Christmas and what it should mean to each and everyone of us. Through this book I was able to come closer to Christ and the true meaning of Christmas.
I will be gifting and recommending this book many times over.
I will be gifting and recommending this book many times over.
December 31, 2024
This was such a great book to read, especially during the Christmas season. It talks about the symbolism of Christmas and the people in the Christmas story, but it also has modern day examples. It helped me focus more on Christ this Christmas.(2019)
Read this again in 2024 and love it even more! Moving it to 5 stars!
Read this again in 2024 and love it even more! Moving it to 5 stars!
February 28, 2022
This book is so wonderful. A reread worthy Christmas book, that reminds us of all the beautiful, good things we are blessed to have because of a Babe born in a manger. Highly recommend to anyone wanting an uplifting, spiritual read for the holiday season.
December 5, 2018
Some beautiful insights about the symbols of Christmas and events surrounding Christ's birth.
January 15, 2019
I will be reading this every Christmas!
July 8, 2019
Some of my favorite points made in this book:
From the chapter RECOGNIZING THE STAR: "I once attended a Christmas devotional where Elder Craig A. Cardon of the Seventy spoke. He asked, "How did the wise men know that the star was a sign of Christ's birth?" I assumed it had been prophesied somewhere in the Old Testament, but then Elder Cardon pointed out that our current Old Testament shows no such prophecy. He said, "Every year at Christmastime, people in nearly every Christian denomination celebrate the birth of the Lord by depicting or reenacting the Nativity, complete with wise men following a star. Today we read of 'His star' in the New Testament (Matthew 2:2), but how did the wise men, who didn't have the New Testament, know of the sacred sign?"
Elder Cardon continued, "Most Christians believe there is no scripture or revelation beyond the Bible, yet of the 43 occurrences of the word star in the Old Testament, only one has reference to the Savior (see Numbers 24:17), and in that instance the word is a title, not a heavenly object. How did the wise men know to look for a star? People may not realize it, but anyone who believes wise men came at Christ's birth is acknowledging that there had to be other scriptures and revelation in addition to the Bible."
From the chapter SHEPHERDS AND ANGELS--THE GOOD SHEPHERD I loved the experience he when he let a tour group to the Shepherds fields outside of Bethlehem. Their local guide, Sam, talked to them about how shepherding in ancient Israel was difficult and demanding work. It was a 24 hour a day job. Sam drew their attention to the caves. At night they would bring all flocks to a cave for protection. Some caves would hold up to 200 sheep. Several shepherds would rotate through the night to help block the opening to the cave. Sam said the shepherd on duty didn't just block the door, he BECAME the door. John 10:7-9
Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.
All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
I highly recommend listening to this book, any time of the year!
From the chapter RECOGNIZING THE STAR: "I once attended a Christmas devotional where Elder Craig A. Cardon of the Seventy spoke. He asked, "How did the wise men know that the star was a sign of Christ's birth?" I assumed it had been prophesied somewhere in the Old Testament, but then Elder Cardon pointed out that our current Old Testament shows no such prophecy. He said, "Every year at Christmastime, people in nearly every Christian denomination celebrate the birth of the Lord by depicting or reenacting the Nativity, complete with wise men following a star. Today we read of 'His star' in the New Testament (Matthew 2:2), but how did the wise men, who didn't have the New Testament, know of the sacred sign?"
Elder Cardon continued, "Most Christians believe there is no scripture or revelation beyond the Bible, yet of the 43 occurrences of the word star in the Old Testament, only one has reference to the Savior (see Numbers 24:17), and in that instance the word is a title, not a heavenly object. How did the wise men know to look for a star? People may not realize it, but anyone who believes wise men came at Christ's birth is acknowledging that there had to be other scriptures and revelation in addition to the Bible."
From the chapter SHEPHERDS AND ANGELS--THE GOOD SHEPHERD I loved the experience he when he let a tour group to the Shepherds fields outside of Bethlehem. Their local guide, Sam, talked to them about how shepherding in ancient Israel was difficult and demanding work. It was a 24 hour a day job. Sam drew their attention to the caves. At night they would bring all flocks to a cave for protection. Some caves would hold up to 200 sheep. Several shepherds would rotate through the night to help block the opening to the cave. Sam said the shepherd on duty didn't just block the door, he BECAME the door. John 10:7-9
Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.
All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
I highly recommend listening to this book, any time of the year!
January 4, 2019
4.5 stars.
Began listening to this audiobook on Christmas day and just had time now to finish it. I really enjoy this author and i was delighted to hear about some of the history and explanations behind legends and traditions of Christmas. I have felt like I have made Christmas an over scheduled holiday where I get so overwhelmed with all my preparations for Christmas: the Christmas cards (creating, printing, addressing, and shipping), the holiday treat plates to all neighbors and friends, the gift shopping and preparation, the decorating of my home, etc. I have become so focused on all the "have-to-get done's" that I nearly missed out on the real Spirit of Christmas. This book put me back on track.
There were a lot of things I didn't know about the symbolism of various Christmas traditions, such as the Legend of the Poinsettias or significance of swaddling clothes. However, I really loved Brad Wilcox's insight and application in our own lives. For instance, with the Legend of the Poinsettias, Wilcox relates the story the of young Spanish girl who only has weeds to cover the Baby Jesus in the local church's nativity scene but then a miracle occurs. The message of the story is not about what the gift is but that the gift is given from the heart. He then discusses the various gifts we can give that may seem mundane but are daily little acts of service that are wonderful gifts since they come from our hearts.
Definitely would recommend this short and easy to listen/read Christmas book.
Began listening to this audiobook on Christmas day and just had time now to finish it. I really enjoy this author and i was delighted to hear about some of the history and explanations behind legends and traditions of Christmas. I have felt like I have made Christmas an over scheduled holiday where I get so overwhelmed with all my preparations for Christmas: the Christmas cards (creating, printing, addressing, and shipping), the holiday treat plates to all neighbors and friends, the gift shopping and preparation, the decorating of my home, etc. I have become so focused on all the "have-to-get done's" that I nearly missed out on the real Spirit of Christmas. This book put me back on track.
There were a lot of things I didn't know about the symbolism of various Christmas traditions, such as the Legend of the Poinsettias or significance of swaddling clothes. However, I really loved Brad Wilcox's insight and application in our own lives. For instance, with the Legend of the Poinsettias, Wilcox relates the story the of young Spanish girl who only has weeds to cover the Baby Jesus in the local church's nativity scene but then a miracle occurs. The message of the story is not about what the gift is but that the gift is given from the heart. He then discusses the various gifts we can give that may seem mundane but are daily little acts of service that are wonderful gifts since they come from our hearts.
Definitely would recommend this short and easy to listen/read Christmas book.
January 4, 2025
4.25 stars.
"Because He descended below them all, He can offer consolation and comfort during challenges, perspective and peace during trials, and divine assistance through it all."
While this one felt kind of slow to start for me (likely a "me" problem, not the book), it ended up being so sweet and perfect for the Christmas season. I'm glad I remembered I had it on my shelves BEFORE Christmas, and not after, like I usually do.
I loved the stories Brother Wilcox shares as he talks about how each of the different parts of the traditional Christmas story apply to us in our daily lives. And, of course, the most precious truth of all: "Because of the Messiah in a manger, we are all saved. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we can all know the wonder of receiving the greatest gift ever."
Many moons ago, I had the opportunity to hear Bro. Wilcox speak to a room full of missionaries serving in Panama. I was 17 years old, and I had the privilege of being there because I was friends with the then mission president's daughter. I just remember he had such a positivity and kindness about him. And now, as I listen to him speak during General Conference, I continue to hear those same things. He's a great speaker, and his messages are always timely and full of love. Turns out he's a great author too.
"I've always believed that some of God's tenderest of tender mercies come to those who are willing to sacrifice a little comfort and convenience to keep watch over His flock."
"Because He descended below them all, He can offer consolation and comfort during challenges, perspective and peace during trials, and divine assistance through it all."
While this one felt kind of slow to start for me (likely a "me" problem, not the book), it ended up being so sweet and perfect for the Christmas season. I'm glad I remembered I had it on my shelves BEFORE Christmas, and not after, like I usually do.
I loved the stories Brother Wilcox shares as he talks about how each of the different parts of the traditional Christmas story apply to us in our daily lives. And, of course, the most precious truth of all: "Because of the Messiah in a manger, we are all saved. Because of the Messiah in a manger, we can all know the wonder of receiving the greatest gift ever."
Many moons ago, I had the opportunity to hear Bro. Wilcox speak to a room full of missionaries serving in Panama. I was 17 years old, and I had the privilege of being there because I was friends with the then mission president's daughter. I just remember he had such a positivity and kindness about him. And now, as I listen to him speak during General Conference, I continue to hear those same things. He's a great speaker, and his messages are always timely and full of love. Turns out he's a great author too.
"I've always believed that some of God's tenderest of tender mercies come to those who are willing to sacrifice a little comfort and convenience to keep watch over His flock."
November 22, 2022
God is visible, and knowable
He is as close to us as we allow Him to be
He is the Literal Father of our spirits
Temples - Holy beacons that guide us to the Savior
“The blessings awaiting you in the temple are worth any sacrifice”
“Our feelings about the temple are the truest indicators of our deepest feelings about Christ.” -Elder Wells
“If we love the temple today, we would have loved Christ in His day.
If we seek to go to the temple, we would have sought to be with Christ.
If we desire to learn more about the temple, we would have desired to learn more about Christ.”
We are not forgotten, we are valued and loved
If an angel came to Mary, an angel could come (came) to Joseph Smith
Serve, to return grace for God’s grace to us
Not to earn our way
Turn outward, in service
We can follow the example of our Lord, and serve
Love matters
Christmas is love
Christ = Love’s pure light
Christ is the light of love
Fight fire with love
The right prevail
Acting, not reacting
Turning the other cheek
Going the extra mile
Forgiving others
Love others
Kindness and respect matter
He is as close to us as we allow Him to be
He is the Literal Father of our spirits
Temples - Holy beacons that guide us to the Savior
“The blessings awaiting you in the temple are worth any sacrifice”
“Our feelings about the temple are the truest indicators of our deepest feelings about Christ.” -Elder Wells
“If we love the temple today, we would have loved Christ in His day.
If we seek to go to the temple, we would have sought to be with Christ.
If we desire to learn more about the temple, we would have desired to learn more about Christ.”
We are not forgotten, we are valued and loved
If an angel came to Mary, an angel could come (came) to Joseph Smith
Serve, to return grace for God’s grace to us
Not to earn our way
Turn outward, in service
We can follow the example of our Lord, and serve
Love matters
Christmas is love
Christ = Love’s pure light
Christ is the light of love
Fight fire with love
The right prevail
Acting, not reacting
Turning the other cheek
Going the extra mile
Forgiving others
Love others
Kindness and respect matter
January 5, 2019
I think this would have made a 5-star Christmas book if I had read it.
But, I didn't. I listened to it. And it was a good thing I did because I wouldn't have finished it during the Christmas season.
But, I know I missed something in the reading, in the written layout of the repeating "Because of the babe in a manger," that Wilcox repeats over and over, chapter after chapter. It is a very nice, cohesive way to pull all the chapters together.
I really enjoyed the use of so many "symbols" of Christmas: the Light of the World, Poinsettia, trees, the Holy Family, shepherds, angels, wise men. Wilcox personalizes many of these with his own antedotes.
I think I will put this on the list to read next year. It has so many good things that bring the Christmas spirit more into focus. I'll start early enough to finish before December.
I recommend this to others if they are looking for a nice read early in the season.
But, I didn't. I listened to it. And it was a good thing I did because I wouldn't have finished it during the Christmas season.
But, I know I missed something in the reading, in the written layout of the repeating "Because of the babe in a manger," that Wilcox repeats over and over, chapter after chapter. It is a very nice, cohesive way to pull all the chapters together.
I really enjoyed the use of so many "symbols" of Christmas: the Light of the World, Poinsettia, trees, the Holy Family, shepherds, angels, wise men. Wilcox personalizes many of these with his own antedotes.
I think I will put this on the list to read next year. It has so many good things that bring the Christmas spirit more into focus. I'll start early enough to finish before December.
I recommend this to others if they are looking for a nice read early in the season.
October 23, 2019
There isn't a reason this book should have taken as long as it did to read other than I started it during Christmas season and didn't finish it before I'd moved on. In an effort to clean up my nightstand and because we're rounding in to the Christmas season again, I picked this book up recently and started it over. I'm exceptionally happy I did.
Brad Wilcox has written both a very festive as well as a thought provoking book about Christmas. His aim is to refocus the reader's thoughts and reflections from the symbols of Christmas to the central figure of Christmas, the Messiah in the Manger, Jesus Christ. In doing this, he has made me see many of the trappings of Christmas in a different light, made me appreciate why we celebrate Christmas as we do. I really enjoyed the premise and execution of this book.
Brad Wilcox has written both a very festive as well as a thought provoking book about Christmas. His aim is to refocus the reader's thoughts and reflections from the symbols of Christmas to the central figure of Christmas, the Messiah in the Manger, Jesus Christ. In doing this, he has made me see many of the trappings of Christmas in a different light, made me appreciate why we celebrate Christmas as we do. I really enjoyed the premise and execution of this book.
January 25, 2021
Brother Wilcox brings home the point in this book that the baby born in Bethlehem was much more than just an unusual baby. This baby was the Messiah, the anticipated champion of all Israel's history -- the only individual born of an earthly mother capable of performing an infinite sacrifice. These facts were re-affirmed to me as I read the book. Brother Wilcox includes much enjoyable content about Christmas traditions which help us to remember and appreciate the significance of the Messiah.
There was some difficulty for me as I began reading the book during three or four days that I was in the hospital (Dec 30, 2020 - Jan 3, 2021). I missed some of the joy intended by Brother Cox and was tempted to award a rating of three stars. But all that has happened and that is going on now "Because of the Messiah in a Manger" obligates / motivates me to a higher rating.
There was some difficulty for me as I began reading the book during three or four days that I was in the hospital (Dec 30, 2020 - Jan 3, 2021). I missed some of the joy intended by Brother Cox and was tempted to award a rating of three stars. But all that has happened and that is going on now "Because of the Messiah in a Manger" obligates / motivates me to a higher rating.
January 13, 2024
"Because of the Messiah in a manger, each time we partake of the sacrament we can bring our broken hearts and contrite spirits to Him and be filled with His light. In Doctrine and Covenants we read, “That which is of God is light; and he that receiveth light, and continueth in God, receiveth more light.” Because of the Messiah in a manger, we can feel the light go in and then invite more and more “until the perfect day” (D&C 50:24)."
There were so many good quotes in this book. I love how Brother Wilcox broke down several of the symbols of Christmas and reminded us why they point to Christ. I admit that it makes sense why Christmas traditions such as Christmas trees and lights symbolize Christ, but I don't know that I had ever paid much mind to why. Also, I'm so glad the story of the poinsettia was included. It is one of my favorites.
There were so many good quotes in this book. I love how Brother Wilcox broke down several of the symbols of Christmas and reminded us why they point to Christ. I admit that it makes sense why Christmas traditions such as Christmas trees and lights symbolize Christ, but I don't know that I had ever paid much mind to why. Also, I'm so glad the story of the poinsettia was included. It is one of my favorites.
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