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Submitted by users of this web site from around the world. This page is provided only as a resource, and does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of the programs or musical selections contained herein. If you need sources for music mentioned in these programs, check out the vendors listed on my Links page. Thanks to everyone who contributed. New contributions are welcome. Have a wonderful Christmas! Submitted by Emily Hollingshead (Cedar City, UT) and Arlene Jacobs (Florida)
Father: Do you wonder how it was that first Christmas Night, so long ago in a place so far away? Do you know what is the miracle that we celebrate tonight?" Children: Tell us, tell us! Mother: We are so grateful for the scriptures – the Book of Mormon and the Holy Bible, which tell us the true story of Jesus’ Christ’s birth. It is our yearly tradition to join as a family around the Christmas tree and read the story which reminds us of His sacrifice for us. Father : And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. (Luke 1:26-27) Child 1: That was Jesus' parents! Mother: His earthly parents, yes. Father: But we know that Jesus had a Heavenly Father, “And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.” (Luke 1:30-31,34-35) Child 2: Our Heavenly Father is Jesus' Father! Father: Yes! The Book of Mormon also teaches us that Heavenly Father is Jesus’ Father: And behold, he shall be born of Mary, at Jerusalem which is the land of our forefathers, she being a virgin, a precious and chosen vessel, who shall be overshadowed and conceive by the power of the Holy Ghost, and bring forth a son, even the Son of God. (Alma 9:10) Child 1: But what about Joseph? Mother: God knew that Mary needed someone to help her raise His Son. Father: (reading) Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS. (Matthew 1:19-21,24-25) CHOIR: Guard Him, Joseph (4 minutes) (Sally DeFord) Child 2: But Jesus was born in Bethlehem, Not Nazareth. Father: That was because of King Herod. He wanted to count all the people of the land, so he could tax them. “And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.” (Luke 2:4-5) CHOIR: O Little Town of Bethlehem (3 minutes) (Beebe) Child 1: So, that's how Jesus was born in Bethlehem! Mother: Yes, Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but because it was so crowded in the city, and it took so long for Joseph and Mary to get there that there were no rooms left in the any of the inns. Do you remember where Jesus was born?" Child 2: In a Stable! Child 1: And he slept in a manger!! Primary: Away In A Manger ( 2 ½ minutes) – (Primary Book) Child 1: And Jesus' star! Tell us about Jesus' star in the sky! Father: “And behold, there shall be a new star arise, such an one as ye never have beheld; and this also shall be a sign unto you. And behold, this is not all, there shall be many signs and wonders in heaven. And it shall come to pass that ye shall be amazed, and wonder, insomuch that ye shall fall to the earth. And it shall come to pass that whosoever believe in the son of God, the same shall have everlasting life. (Helaman 14:2-9) CHOIR: One Star, One Savior (3-4 minutes) – (Webb) Mother: God wanted witnesses to tell others about this miraculous birth. Do you know who they were? Children: The Shepherds. Father: Yes! “And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 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 Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. CHOIR: While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks (2 ½ minutes) (Sally DeFord) Father: The angels announced the birth of the King. First to the shepherds, Mother: And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom he is pleased!” and then angels declared it to all the world! Father: “For behold, God knowing all things, being from everlasting to everlasting, behold, he sent angels to minister unto the children of men, to make manifest concerning the coming of Christ; and in Christ there should come every good thing. (Moroni 7:22) Congregation: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing (2 minutes) Mother: And when the angels left them, the shepherds rushed to Bethlehem so that they could see the baby Jesus. Child 1: What about the 3 Wise Men. Didn't they come, too? Father: Yes, the Wise Men came from far way in the East, to Judea. “Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. (Matthew 2:1-2, 9-12) CHOIR: With Wondering Awe (Congregation joins in) ( 2 ½ minutes) (Beebe) Father: The shepherds spread the word of the baby Jesus, and told everyone all that the angels had said to them. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart (Luke 2:18-19) CHOIR: Silent Night (3 minutes) (Traditional) Father: The people who understood the miracle of Jesus' birth, and the significance of the Savior's coming, were so glad! And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. (Luke 2:20) Child 2: What do you mean by the significance? Father: But behold, the spirit hath said this much unto me, saying: Cry unto this people, saying – Repent ye, and prepare the way of the Lord, and walk in his paths, which are straight; for behold, the kingdom of heaven is at hand, and the Son of God cometh upon the face of the earth. (Alma 9:9) Congregation: Joy To the World (2 minutes) (Organ and Piano, together) (Beebe) Top of page A Christmas Sing-In For home or church Submitted by Linda Garner (Sandy, Utah)
Silent Night (Hymns p. 204) Have a Very Merry Christmas (Children¹s Songbook p. 51) Nativity Song (Children¹s Songbook p. 53) Narrator: Christmas! It¹s the happiest time of the year. We love the sights and sounds and smells of Christmas. We revel in the memories of Christmas past and the dreams of Christmas future. For a short season we lay our cares aside and turn our thoughts to others. We are kinder, gentler, and more generous. We call it the Christmas Spirit. We hardly recognize ourselves as we go about spreading good cheer to friends, family, and sometimes strangers. Yes, we love the tinsel, the gaily wrapped packages, the twinkling lights, but there is more. We know in our hearts there is a deeper meaning to Christmas, and we are not satisfied until Christmas takes us to the manger, if only in our hearts. We must travel through time to the stable in Bethlehem. Our hearts yearn to follow the star, to hear the angels song, to smell the hay and listen to the lambs. Our search for Christmas is not complete until we, too, find the baby in the manger. Let us now go even unto Bethlehem and see this thing which has come to pass. Oh Come, let us adore him. Oh Come All Ye Faithful (Hymns p. 202) Away In a Manger (Hymns p. 206, or Children¹s Songbook p. 42) Narrator: What kind of woman would God choose to be the mother of his son? Nephi calls her a virgin most beautiful and fair. Alma calls her a precious and chosen vessel of the Lord. Historians tell us that Mary was very young when she was told of her sacred mission, perhaps as young as 13, and probably not older than 16. Can you imagine the thoughts that must have filled her young mind? It would be she who would prepare Jesus for his triumphant mission. Her baby would be the son of God! This was neither the first nor last time that the Lord would choose someone very young for his most important work. David was just a boy when he was annointed King of Israel. The Savior would come through his blood line. Mormon was just 10 when he was entrusted with the plates, and 16 when he took charge of the Nephite armies. Joseph Smith was 14 when he saw the father and the son, and began his mission to restore the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the earth. We begin to see that you are never too young to be of great service to the Lord. We love the words that Mary spoke as she accepted her sacred calling. "Behold the handmaiden of the Lord. Be it unto me according to thy word." If only we could be so obedient to the will of the Lord. The name, Mary, means bitter...perhaps a reminder that a sword would one day pierce her heart. Joseph was no less a hero. Imagine his feelings as he perceived that his love had been betrayed. Imagine his heartbreak, his anguish at his shattered dreams. Yet, at the angel¹s word he too showed complete and immediate obedience. Don¹t you just marvel at the strength of his spirit, his trust, his faith. We know so little of Joseph, but we imagine him gentle and kind, strong and protective. We know that he would have been equal to Mary in righteousness and spirituality. What kind of man would God have chosen to raise his son? Joseph would stand beside Mary. He would teach and guide Jesus. He would act as father. When Joseph Went to Bethlehem (Children¹s Songbook p. 38) Once Within a Lowly Stable (Children¹s Songbook p. 41) Picture a Christmas (Children¹s Songbook p. 50) Narrator: The name "Jesus" was specified by the angel Gabriel. It means Savior. His other names are no less descriptive. Christ means annointed one. Messiah means deliverer. Immanuel means God with us. The scriptures teach "there is no other name given, whereby salvation can come to the children of men." Like Nephi, we can barely comprehend the condescension of God. This helpless baby nestled in the staw was Jehovah, the God of Israel, the Great I Am, the Creator of heaven and earth, the Lord of Lords, the King of Kings, the Bright and Morning Star....and he became like us, that we might become like him. Did Mary and Joseph know that Jesus must be born in Bethlehem, the house of bread? How appropriate that the ³Bread of Life² would begin his life in the city named the house of bread. How did they feel about the humble place of his birth? Would they have chosen a stable, a manger? What did Jesus mean to teach us by coming in this way? O Little Town of Bethlehem (Hymns p. 208) Once in Royal David¹s City (Hymns p. 205) Narrator: It was angels who sang the first Christmas Carol on that first Christmas night. Can you imagine a Christmas Celebration without the joyous music of Christmas? Perhaps it was their glorious song that inspired all other carols. Who were the angels who filled that heavenly choir? Departed spirits and spirits yet unborn who recognized this pivotal moment in history, who understood that the future of the world, and their own destiny, hung in the balance of the sacred mission which was about to begin. You and I no doubt looked on as the story began to unfold. In fact who knows but what we joined our voices in that glorious chorus..." Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth Peace, Good Will Toward Men." Angels We Have Heard on High (Hymns p. 203) Hark the Herald Angels Sing (Hymns p. 209) It Came Upon the Midnight Clear (Hymns p. 207) Narrator: Don't you love knowing that the shepherds were the first to receive the message that Jesus had been born; Jesus, who would teach us much about shepherding, Jesus who would call himself the "Good Shepherd," who would teach us how to feed his lambs, to find the lost sheep, to come into the fold; Jesus , who would remind us that "my sheep know my voice, they hear me and follow me." It seems so appropriate that shepherds would be the ones to get the news that the Lamb of God had come. Who were these humble shepherds? It was they who cared for the temple sheep from which the sacrificial lambs would be chosen. These lambs, like Jesus, would be sacrificed for the sins of the people. We picture the shepherds bringing a lamb as a gift for the baby Jesus. The symbolism is flawless. Shepherds worshipping the Good shepherd...bringing a lamb as a gift for the lamb of God. While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks (Hymns p. 211) Far Far Away On Judea¹s Plains (Hymns p. 212) The First Noel (Hymns p.213) Narrator: Historians tell us that the wise men did not really kneel at the manger. They came much later, perhaps as much as two years later. The wise men, or Magi, came from afar, and unlike the common, humble shepherds were men of wealth, influence, and power, perhaps even kings. And so we see that the Savior did not come to just one nation or class of people. The Savior¹s mission was to all people, rich and poor, learned and ignorant, humble and influential, jew and gentile. All men, no matter what their race or station can come to the Savior and become whole. We are reminded that when he comes again every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ. We feel a sense of wonder as we imagine the Wise Men opening their treasures for the small Jesus. Their gifts were so well chosen. Gold, a gift reserved for royalty, a gift representing a crown, a gift befitting a king. Frankincense, a type of incense used by the priests in the temple . This was given as a symbol of his priesthood, his divine power, his Priestly nature. Frankincense was used in the temple for sacrificial offerings, and was given to the baby Jesus... Jesus, who would one day teach us much about sacrifice...Jesus, who had come to sacrifice himself for us, that we might live again. The third gift, myrhh, was a type of perfume used for burial, a gentle reminder that Jesus would one day die for us. Don't you love these images: Learned men searching for Jesus, the source of truth and knowledge... Influential men traveling through the darkness, to find the light of the world--following the star to seek the bright and morning star... Perhaps even Kings, bowing before the King of Kings. With Wondering Awe (Hymns p. 210) Narrator: In reality, the search for Jesus will take us far beyond the manger in Bethlehem. If we would truly follow the star we must go to Nazareth, to Galilea, to Jerusalem. We must find not only the infant Jesus, but Jesus the man. We must find the fisher of men, the teacher, the leader, the healer, the friend. We will find him by the sea of Galilea. We will find him on the Mount of Olives. We will find him on the dusty roads of Palestine. We will find him with the leper, the adulterer, the crippled, the sick. Ultimately, if we would find Jesus, we must follow the star to the Garden of Gethsamane, to Golgatha, and to the Garden Tomb. Our worship must take us past the manger to kneel at the cross, for here he finished his work. The gift was complete. This is the gift that matters most...the gift of all gifts....the gift of the atonement of Jesus Christ. Without Easter there could not be a Christmas. This is the gift of which the angels exultantly sang ...good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people. Joy to the World, the Lord is Come! Hail redemptions happy dawn! Joy to the World (Hymns p.201) I Stand All Amazed (Hymns 193) He Sent His Son (Children¹s Songbook p. 35) Narrator: In the tradition of the shepherds and the wisemen, we will give many gifts this Holiday season. Some will be meaningful, some will be frivolous. Some will be gaily wrapped, others unwrappable. Some will be expensive, some will come from the heart. None can match the priceless gift that was given to us. Will we bring a gift to our worship? What might we offer as we kneel before the manger? Gold, Frankincense, and Myrhh seem strangely out of place this time. What might we give as we kneel before the cross? Even a lamb will not do this time, for Jesus was the sacrificial lamb. Perhaps we might give a favorite sin, a heavy burden, a prideful spirit. Perhaps we could give obedience, our love, our will. Perhaps, we could offer our hands or even our heart. And should we choose to give our heart to Jesus, he would give to us a new heart...a softer more obedient heart. He would take us and make us his. He would teach us to be like him. With Humble Heart (Hymns p. 171) More Holiness Give Me (Hymns p. 131) I¹m Trying To Be Like Jesus (Children¹s Songbook p. 78) Top of page Jane Ficiur (Alberta Canada)
The program is called "What Think Ye of Christ?" and is written by Rachelle Castor with the musical number by Diena Moore. It gives vignettes of 7 women telling how they feel about Christ. They are women from the scriptures and from Church history. Sister Castor can be reached at Rachelle Pace Castor, 1295 Oakcrest Cir., Provo, UT 84604, (801) 375-6653 or rpcastor@gmail.com if you are interested in more information. A program we did for a RS homemaking two Christmases ago [that] anyone could put this one together without a lot of work: We went looking for anything we could find about Mary. There are many poems and songs out there including some from the Children's songbook. We just put together an assortment of those using special musical numbers by the choir, a mother/daughter duet and I think a solo, for the songs then ended with a couple and their new baby in costume portraying the Nativity while the story of Christ's birth was read from the scriptures. Ended with the congretation singing Silent Night. Only lasted about half an hour then we socialized with lots of food and friendship after. Editor's note: Food and friendship... I like that! . :~) Top of page Submitted by Gayle Navarre (Kanab, Utah)
D&C 128:23 Soloist: How Great Thou Art 2. The Birth of Jesus Christ Luke 2:4-7 Ward Choir: A Manger Filled With Love 3. Jesus Christ, Our Example and Friend 3 Nephi 27:21 Children’s Chorus: If the Savior Stood Beside Me 4. Jesus Christ, Our Shepherd John 10:14-16, 27 Soloist: The Shepherd of My Soul 5. Jesus Christ, Our Savior and Redeemer Ether 3:14 Alma 11:40 Helaman 14:17 Women’s Choir: Look on Him and Live 6. Jesus Christ’s Atonement and Resurrection 2 Nephi 2:6-9 Soloist: I Stand All Amazed 7. Jesus Christ’s Gospel Restored Rev. 14:6-7 Isaiah 2:2-3 Ward Choir: The Voice of God Again is Heard 8. Jesus Christ’s Second Coming D&C 88:104 Isaiah 40:4-5 D&C 133:25 Ward Choir: The Spirit of God Verses 1 & 2 Congregation: Verses 3 & 4 Top of page Submitted by Mandy Powrie (South Africa)
Son: (as they walk on) .... and Jamie is getting a bicycle for Christmas, but I want a pet rat and a snake, and can we buy a .... Father: (Child’s name), I think that we need to discuss what Christmas is really about. Your mom & I love you and your sisters very much, but we really don’t have money to spend on lots of gifts. We will give you each a gift, but there are other important things we need to remember at Christmas time. Come, get your scriptures out and let’s read.... Son: (Moans) Aw dad, we all know that Christmas is when Christ was born ... Father: Yes, but let’s read anyway, and see if you can tell me afterwards how people felt about the Saviour’s birth. Let’s start by reading from the book of Luke in the New Testament (Both turn to scriptures as narrator comes up & scriptures are recited.) Narration (Angel Gabriel): And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name [was] Mary. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, [thou that art] highly favoured, the Lord [is] with thee: blessed [art] thou among women. And when she saw [him], she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: (Luke 1:26-31) Song: Gabriel’s Message Narration (Mary): And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her. (Luke 1:38) Song: Still, Still, Still Narration (Elizabeth): And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a city of Judea; And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth. And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed [art] thou among women, and blessed [is] the fruit of thy womb. (Luke 1:39-42) Narration (Mary): And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy [is] his name. (Luke 1:46-49) Narration (Joseph): Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just [man], and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. (Matthew 1:18-21) Song: When Joseph Went to Bethlehem (v1) Song: O Little Town of Bethlehem Narration (Roman): AND it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all his empire should be taxed. This same taxing was when Cyrenius was governor of Syria. And all went to be taxed, everyone in his own city. Song: One Starry Night Narration (Roman) (Ctd): And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was none to give room for them in the inns. (JST Luke 2:1, 3-5, 6-7) Song: A Child So Sweet Song: Cantique de Noël Song: Mary’s Lullaby Song: King of Kings Narration (Angels): And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, 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. And this [shall be] a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. (Luke 2:8-14) Song: Angels We have Heard on High (with Gloria ending) Narration (Shepherds) : And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen [it], they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. (Luke 2:15-17, 20) Song: O Come All Ye Faithful Song: Hark, the Herald Angels Sing Son: Dad, you wanted to know how people felt about Jesus’ birth. I can tell you now - the Angels were glad, and the Shepherd’s too; everyone was glad it had happened. Father: That’s right - but there is more. Did you know that there were some other special witnesses? People who had not seen the baby Jesus in the stable, but ...come, let’s read about them. Narration (Joseph): And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb. And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons. (Luke 2:21,24) Narration (Simeon): And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name [was] Simeon; and the same man [was] just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said, Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him. (Luke 2:25-33) Song: I Believe in Christ Narration (Anna): And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband only seven years, whom she married in her youth, And she lived a widow of about fourscore and four years, who departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers, night and day. And she, coming in that instant, gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him, to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. (JST Luke 2:36-38) Son: These people were also glad, but ... What is redemption? What does that mean? Father: (Child’s name) when we redeem something, we get something that belongs to us back from someone else by paying a price for it. Our Saviour has paid the price for us to go back to our Heavenly Father and live in his presence. This is called the plan of redemption. Son: But why can’t we just go back to Heavenly Father when we die? Father: Because we do things that are wrong - this is called sin - and Heavenly Father “cannot look upon Sin with the least degree of allowance”. So the Saviour promised that he would come to earth and pay for our sins so that we could return to our Father. Son: Oh, so when Jesus was born, people knew that he was really keeping his promise and were glad? Father: That’s right! Son: .... but Dad, you forgot to read about the wise men. Father: I was just coming to that - let’s read some more. Song: March of the Three Kings Narration (Herod) : NOW when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is the child that is born, the Messiah of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and have come to worship him. When Herod the king had heard of the child, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. And when he had gathered all the chief priests, and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them, saying, Where is the place that is written of by the prophets, in which Christ should be born? For he greatly feared, yet he believed not the prophets. And they said unto him, It is written by the prophets, that he should be born in Bethlehem of Judea, for thus have they said, The word of the Lord came unto us, saying, And thou Bethlehem, which lieth in the land of Judea, in thee shall be born a prince, which art not the least among the princes of Judea; for out of thee shall come the Messiah, who shall save my people Israel. Then Herod, when he had called the wise men privily, inquired of them diligently what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found the child, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also. (JST Matt 2;1-8) Song: Stars Were Gleaming (v2) Narration (Wise Men): When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. And being warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into their own country another way. (Matthew 2:9-12) Song: Glad Noel Narration (Joseph): And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. When he arose, he took the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt: Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, from two years old and under, according to the time which he had diligently enquired of the wise men. (Matt 2:16) Song: Coventry Carol Narration (Joseph): But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a vision to Joseph in Egypt, Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel; for they are dead who sought the young child's life. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judea, in the stead of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither; but, notwithstanding, being warned of God in a vision, he went into the eastern part of Galilee; And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene. (JST Matthew 2:13-14, 19, 21-23) Song: Shining Star Son: But what happened after that? Father: We also find the answer to that in the scriptures! We read more about the Saviour’s youth in Luke: “And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, being filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.” (JST Luke 2:40). Now you can read verse 52 in the same chapter. Son: And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man. (Luke 2:52) Song: Baptism Father: This scripture takes place many years later: “Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was opened, And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.” (Luke 3:21-22) Son: What did Jesus do after he was baptised? Did he redeem us then? Father: Not quite. He first taught people for about three years. You can read the next scripture Son: And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all Judaea and Jerusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases; And they that were vexed with unclean spirits: and they were healed. And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed [them] all. (Luke 6:17-19) Song: I Heard Him Come Father: AND it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every city and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God: and the twelve [were] with him, (Luke 8:1) Father: Jesus lived a perfect life, and always obeyed His Father. He said: “I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me. And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not left me alone; for I do always those things that please him.” (John 5:30, John 8:29) Song: Love One Another Son: We learnt a scripture at school, it says “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15) That’s what Jesus did - He loved His Father and obeyed His commandments! Father: Yes, that is a good observation (child’s name). But Heavenly Father also loves us - “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16) Son: So, Jesus wants us to love other people - and is that what Christmas is about? Father: Yes, we love to give and received gifts, but the real work of Christmas is to love, to be kind, to share with others .... Song: I Will Love as Christ Has Loved Father: There is a beautiful scripture I would like to read to you. It is something that the Saviour said: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27) May our hearts be filled with peace and love this Christmas. Song: The Lord Bless Thee, and Keep Thee Top of page Submitted by Trudy Giampaolo
Top of page (Submitted by Sally DeFord)
~ In the New Testament, John describes a journey by those who would worship: “And there were certain...among them that came up to worship at the feast: the same came therefore to Philip... and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus.” The search for Jesus. No search is so universal. No undertaking so richly rewarding. No effort so ennobling. No purpose so divine. For generations, enlightened mankind in the Old and New worlds anxiously sought the fulfillment of prophecies uttered by righteous men inspired of Almighty God. Then came that night of nights when the angel of the Lord came upon shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock, and the pronouncement, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” Thus, personally invited to undertake a search for the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger, did these shepherds concern themselves with the security of their possessions? Did they procrastinate their search for Jesus? The record affirms that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go even unto Bethlehem... And they came with haste.” Choir: Shepherd, Leave Thy Sheep Born in a stable, cradled in a manger, he came forth from heaven to live on earth as mortal man and to establish the kingdom of God. During his earthly ministry, he taught men the higher law. His glorious gospel reshaped the thinking of the world. He blessed the sick; he caused the lame to walk, the blind to see, the deaf to hear. He even raised the dead to life. With the birth of the babe of Bethlehem, there emerged a great endowment -- a power stronger than weapons, a wealth more lasting than the coins of Caesar. This child was to be the King of kings and Lord of lords, the promised Messiah, even Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Choir: Born to Wear a Crown Down through the generations of time, the message from Jesus has been the same. To Peter by the shores of beautiful Galilee, he said, “Follow me.” To Philip of old came the call, “Follow me.” To the Levite who sat at receipt of customs came the instructions, “Follow me.” And to you and to me, if we but listen, shall come that same beckoning invitation, “Follow me.” But how do we follow him if first we don’t find him? And how shall we find him if first we don’t seek him? Where and how should we begin this search for Jesus? The formula for finding Jesus has always been and ever will be the same--the earnest and sincere prayer of a humble and pure heart. The prophet Jeremiah counseled, “Ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your hearts.” Children’s choir: If With All Your Hearts Before we can successfully undertake a personal search for Jesus, we must first prepare time for him in our lives and room for him in our hearts. In these busy days there are many who have time for golf, time for shopping, time for work, time for play -- but no time for Christ. Lovely homes dot the land and provide rooms for eating, rooms for sleeping, playrooms, sewing rooms, television rooms, but no room for Christ. Do we get a pang of conscience as we recall his own words, “The foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.” Or... when we remember, “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.” No room. No room. No room. Ever has it been. Choir: No Room, No Room As we undertake our personal search for Jesus...it is fundamental that we have a clear concept of him whom we seek. The shepherds of old sought Jesus the child. But we seek Jesus the Christ, ... our Redeemer, the Author of our salvation; he who was in the beginning with the Father; he who took upon himself the sins of the world and so willingly died the we might forever live. This is the Jesus whom we seek. And when we find him, will be prepared as were the wise men of old to provide gifts from our many treasures? They presented gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These are not the gifts Jesus asks of us. From the treasure of our hearts Jesus asks that we give of ourselves: “Behold, the Lord requireth the heart and a willing mind.” Children’s Choir: If I Had Been In Bethlehem In this marvelous dispensation...our opportunities to give of ourselves are indeed limitless... There are hearts to gladden. There are kind words to say. There are gifts to be given. There are deeds to be done. There are souls to be saved. [Let us] not find ourselves in the unenviable position of Jacob Marley’s ghost, who spoke to Ebenezer Scrooge in Dickens’ immortal A Christmas Carol. Marley spoke sadly of opportunities lost, saying, “Why did I walk through crowds of fellow beings with my eyes turned down, and never raise them to that blessed star which led the Wise Men to a poor abode? Were there no poor homes to which its light would have conducted me?” The Star of Bethlehem (Solo) As we lift our eyes heavenward, we too, will see a bright, particular star which will guide us to our opportunity. Such was the experience of a Sunday School class some years ago when a wise teacher put aside the manual one Sunday morning. With her class members listening in, she telephoned [President Thomas S. Monson, who was then] serving as the bishop of a large ward in the central part of Salt Lake City. [President Monson tells us of this experience:] The teacher asked, “Are there any poor in your ward--people who need a sub for Santa?” She then described her own neighborhood as one of affluence and mentioned that she wanted her class to remember this particular Christmas. I ...mentioned a family that would welcome [such help]--one that would also greatly benefit her class members. The Mueller family had recently emigrated from war-torn Germany. The children were learning to speak our language, and were shy and reluctant to mingle with others. Their personal possessions were few; they had lost so much during the war. I suggested an appropriate evening when her class could accompany her to our ward meetinghouse and together we would walk to their home. Again the teacher stated that she wanted her class to remember the true meaning of Christmas. I responded, “Could I suggest, then, that each child bring a gift that has a special meaning to the individual; a gift the person treasures and would rather keep for himself.” Just four days before Christmas, several adults brought this Sunday School class to our ward building in large, expensive cars. Such an array of wealth had never before graced the parking area. We then walked to the Mueller home, singing carols along the way. The laughter of the children and the hurried pace of their steps reflected the anticipation of Christmas. It was at the Mueller home, however, that the frills of Christmas became the spirit of Christmas. I watched as one girl looked into the eyes of one of the Mueller children, a girl about her age, then tenderly handed her a beautiful doll she had received on her own birthday, a gift she herself loved. She anxiously told her newly found friend how to dress the doll and hold it ever so tenderly in cradled arms. I observed a normally rowdy boy take from his left hand his genuine leather baseball glove, and place it on the left hand of a German-speaking boy who had never seen, far less worn, a baseball glove. He then explained how to catch the baseball in the special pocket of the glove, which he had hand prepared hour after hour with a particular oil. Such was the experience of each child with each gift. As we walked back to the meetinghouse, not a word was spoken. One could hear the crunch of the newly fallen snow as young feet made the two-block journey. We entered the building, there to have donuts and apple cider. In the blessing on the food, a beautiful girl, her voice choked with emotion, described the feelings of all of us as she prayed, “Heavenly Father, we thank thee for the best Christmas we have ever had.” That night, as children who had found the real spirit of Christmas left the parking lot, and disappeared into the darkness, I recalled the meaningful words from the hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem”: How silently, how silently The wondrous gift is given! So God imparts to human hearts The blessings of his heaven. No ear may hear his coming; But in this world of sin, Where meek souls will receive him, still The dear Christ enters in. And so he had. Choir and congregation: O Little Town of Bethlehem Top of page (Submitted by Sally DeFord)
"In the Stable" (SAB w/children's Choir)--Maxine Poesgate: An easy piece with a delightful melody that the children pick up quickly. Available through commercial music vendors. "Soft, Soft" (SATB)--Hanson/Lyon: A little more difficult, but a beautiful, almost sad-sounding selection. Available through LDS music vendors. "Gesu Bambino" (Solo, SATB, TTBB, SSA, violin... you name it)--Pietro Yon: An old standard that I just can't do without. "Jesus, Name of Wondrous Love"--How/Titcomb: Another old standard with a gorgeous melody. Available through commercial music vendors, and also through LDS distribution (included in "The Choirbook). Sources for sheet music: Access to good music has improved dramatically (thank goodness!) since vendors have begun to set up shop in cyberspace. A few suggestions appear on my Links page, and many more can be found by searching the web. Have fun! Top of page Submitted by Maureen McIlwain (Alberta, Canada)
Thy Sheep, Guard Him Joseph, and others, as well as a piano-organ duet. The success of this is really dependent upon good speakers. Ours turned out really well, we had some insight into perhaps how the people involved in that first Christmas night actually felt. Top of page Submitted by Joy Erskine
(Joe and Mike are fishing together off the pier on a Saturday morning. Joe snags his line and it breaks. He fumes and fusses around trying to rehook his line.) Mike: "What's with you this morning, Joe? You ain't done a thing right since we got here! If you don't settle down, we're never gonna get any fish!" Joe: "Oh, I guess I'm too preoccupied with Marie to be any good. Mike, you got any good advice about women?" Mike: "Sure, I got lots of advice about women! Just ask me, I got an answer! It's never the right one, but I got lots of 'em! Whatcha wanna know?" Joe: "I must be crazy, talking to you about something that involves Marie. I'll screw things up for sure if I listen to you! Do me a favor, Mike, don't advise me, just hear me out. I gotta talk to someone; even you will do for that." Mike: "Thanks for the vote of confidence, Bud. I love you, too!" Joe: "Well, love is what it's all about. I love Marie, dang it! And I know she loves me. I want her to marry me, but that's where I get drawn up short. She wants to marry of her own faith, which leaves me hanging out to dry!" Mike: "Well, so what? If you want to marry her, join up. What's the big deal? It doesn't mean you have to practice it, you know!" Joe: "No, you didn't hear me the first time -- I said I love her. I don't want to deceive her into marrying me. I want her to love me back, forever." Mike: "Okay, so what's the real question?" Joe: "Well, I'm not "un"-religious, you know. I believe in a supreme being, even though I'm not much involved with "church," as such. But Marie is different. I think that's part of why I love her. It makes me wonder if there isn't something about her beliefs that I should believe too. But, for cryin' out loud, how would a guy like me know what to believe in?" Mike: "Man, I didn't know what I was gettin' into here, did I? Do I look like, what's that Greek guy's name?, . . . Aphrodite?, uh, Achilles?... oh, yeah -- Aristotle!! A philosopher! Do I look like a philosopher?" Joe: "Well, now that you mention it..." (Mike throws a handful of worms at Joe and the scene ends.) (TRANSITION SONG HERE) (Joe is sitting at the kitchen table having fish for dinner. His mother is keeping him company as he eats.) Joe: "Thanks, Mom. I should've been home for dinner so you wouldn't have to fix it twice. It's been kind of an off day for me." Mom: "Oh, that's okay. Your dad's busy watching an old movie I'm not interested in anyway. How did your day go? Did you and Mike catch very many?" Joe: "Oh, we caught a few." (Joe picks up a spoon and dips into the sugar bowl.) "Not as many as we normally would have, though. I kept dropping things and snagging my line, just stuff like that. Couldn't keep my mind on what I was doing." Mom: "Kind of like now? You know you're getting ready to sprinkle sugar on your fish? Is there something wrong?" Joe: (Drops the sugar spoon in recognition.) "Ch-ee-e-sh! Oh, yes and no. It's this thing with Marie and me. I know there's got to be an answer; I just can't seem to figure it out. What do you do when you have something important on your mind, Mom? Marie is special, and I don't want to lose her to someone else. But I don't want to commit to something I'm not sure of, either. That wouldn't be good for either of us." Mom: "Well, it seems to me that if you have a question, you should look for the answer at the source. When I can't remember what ingredients to use in something I want to make for dinner, I look through my recipe books. When your dad needs to know how to fix something on the car, the first thing he does is check the Chilton manual. I expect when you have a question about faith, the Bible is where you'd probably find an answer." Joe: "Well, yeah ... Why didn't I think of that? Thanks, Mom. I should've talked to you first-- Mike and I would've had a lot better luck at fishing today!" (Scene fades out; returns with Joe sitting at the kitchen table with the Bible. It's getting late.) Joe: "I've been reading for hours. I know it's got to be in here somewhere. Please, God, let me find the answer I'm looking for." (Joe leans his head on his hand to continue reading, and his head slowly lowers as he falls asleep.) (Enter Joseph as in Joe's dream.) Joseph: "Greetings, friend. I am Joseph of Nazareth, son of Heli. I have been walking for a long time, trying to think. My heart is very heavy and I have need to talk; wilt thou listen? "I trace my ancestry from David through two family lines, but I am not a rich man. My home is one of many box-like houses huddled close together in Nazareth, a small, unwalled town on the side of a small hill. Nazareth is some distance from the main road. At it's highest point stands a simple one-story synagogue. Two hundred people live there; most of them are farmers. I am one of a few who work as craftsmen. "I am to wed Mary, the daughter of my uncle, Jacob. Mary was twelve when we became betrothed. Our parents arranged our marriage and we are nearing the end of our betrothal year. Mary has been living in her father's house, but she bears the social status of a married woman because we are to marry. Soon it will be the time for our wedding, and she will move into my house and become my wife. (Pauses.) I should be very happy but, several days ago, Mary confided in me that she is with child. (Pauses again.) I am not the father. Mary tells me the angel Gabriel came to her and told her that she would conceive a child. He said the child would be holy because his father was God, and that he would be called the Son of God. I would like to believe her, but I also know that, in Galilee, the occupying Roman troops rape or seduce even betrothed virgins at will. I am not sure what to believe. "I do know that the law is harsh, and a charge of seduction or adultery is serious business. The law of Moses demands that a conviction result either in death by stoning or, more likely, in a degrading "divorce." Such a thing would subject Mary to physical and emotional abuses and public scandal. And she would face a bleak future. I am just a man. I care for Mary and I am not willing to make her a public example. What shall I do? I want to believe her, but how will I know if the child is holy, as she tells me?" (SONG HERE -- Nativity Song) (Gabriel steps up behind Joseph, startling him.) Joseph: "Oh! Who art thou? An angel come to punish me? Gabriel: "I am Gabriel. I come to comfort your heart in the matters of which thou hast spoken. Joseph, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins." Joseph: "Mary, my wife? And her holy child mine to call Son? It is too great a thing for me. I am not worthy. If I take Mary as my wife and name the child, he will be my son, my adopted son as the law prescribes. Surely there is a mistake!" Gabriel: "God maketh no mistake, Joseph. Thy wife, Mary, is the chosen vessel, and thou art chosen as the child's earthly father. Take comfort in these words and go and do what thou knowest thou must." (Gabriel fades away into departure.) Joseph: "It is true! The child is holy. I know now this is as it must be. And Mary has been true to me, her husband, in all things. Blessed is Mary for living in faith! I know by the fullness of my heart that these things are true. I will go to her straightaway and tell her I believe her words. All will be well..." (SONG HERE -- Dona Nobis) (Mom walks back into the kitchen in her nightclothes and shakes Joe awake.) Mom: "Joe, Joe, wake up and go on to bed. It's after midnight. What are you doing down here so late?" Joe: "Oh, Mom! I found it! I found the answer! It was right here in the Bible, like you said it would be. If Marie's church is the right church, I'll be able to tell now. Joseph said I'd know by the feeling in my heart. I can't wait to talk to Marie! In the morning I'll surprise her and meet her at church. I'm on the right track now, Mom, I know it!" (SONG HERE -- I Shall Know Him When He Comes) (SONG HERE --- Stars Were Gleaming) (SONG HERE -- Christmas Morning) (Lights go up; audience participates in singing Christmas hymns to close out the program.) Top of page Submitted by Joy Ward, Monument, Colorado
One thousand, nine hundred and ninety-eight years ago, you and I, everyone one of us in this room, peered out over the veil of time and distance and watched with wonder as the birth of our Savior took place here on earth. We were all there. The fact that we are all here right now, today is proof of that. What a glorious occasion that must have been! Not moments before the Savior stood in our midst. Perhaps he gave you a hug, shook your hand, put His arm around you, or stared lovingly into your beautiful eyes. He probably smiled, a broad, loving confident smile that said to us, “Fear not, for this day I am about my Father’s work. The work that will someday bring us back together to dwell with one another forever. I shall not be gone long, and when I return we will rejoice together the same as we now rejoice at my going.” And when the exact moment was right, He vanished from our presence and began His exquisite journey. We laughed, we cried, we celebrated! This was it! This was the moment we had waited an eternity for! This was the part of our Father’s plan most precious and holy! Our love for our Elder Brother could not have been stronger. Our gratitude and humility for what He was about to do could not have been deeper! So glorious was this moment, that we spontaneously joined our voices together and began to sing! And those who were not blessed with the talent of singing, began to shout in joyous tones! A sublime chorus of notes and voice blended together to create one of the sweetest sounds ever to come from the heavens! So great was our joy and our shouting and singing, the sound could be heard even to the ends of the earth! At some point the veil dividing the heavens and the earth was rent, and some of us were allowed to visit the earth and there to sing praises to God and His Son, Jesus Christ. Yes, we were there. You and I, me and you. Shouting and singing. Praising and rejoicing. May we throughout this Christmas Season and for the entire year, reflect on our commitment to our brother, even Jesus Christ, that we made that day, standing there, watching these events take place. Our commitment to pass the test, rise above our circumstances on earth whatever they may turn out be, and live our lives such that we may be a part of that same Heavenly or Earthly choir that will herald Christ’s return to this Earth once again, is our prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. GUARD HIM, JOSEPH Who put Joseph in the back of the stable? Who dressed him in brown, put a staff in his hand, And told him to stand in the back of the creche, Background for the magnificent light of the Madonna? God-chosen, this man Joseph was faithful In spite of the gossip in Nazareth, In spite of the danger from Herod. This man, Joseph, listened to the angels And it was he who name the Child Immanuel. Is this a man to be stuck for centuries In the back of the stable? Actually, Joseph probably stood in the doorway Guarding the mother and Child Or greeting shepherds and kings. When he wasn’t in the doorway, He was probably urging Mary to get some rest. Gently covering her with his cloak, Assuring her that he would watch the Child. Actually, he probably picked the Child up in his arms And walked him in the night, Patting him lovingly Until he closed His eyes. This Christmas, let us give thanks to God For this man of incredible faith Into whose care God placed the Christ Child. And to Mary, whose faith never wavered, Though mocked and ridiculed By those all around her. Still, head held high, and close Under Joseph’s arm, Her courage was as strong as Was her determination to Finish the work she’d been given to do. Courage. To choose right over the convenient, the popular, or the socially accepted is a sign of strength. We need courage to choose change over conflict and inner anguish. The courage to choose and to make decisions based on fact, feelings and prompting, regardless of the reaction or responses of others, is a God-given virtue that make life meaningful and worthwhile. We need the courage to remain true and faithful, to show by our life-style day after day that we are not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We need courage so that regardless of environmental pressures or situations, we will continue worthily in the pursuit of lofty goals in His paths. LULLABY Child: Mom, how come so many pictures of Jesus I see have children in them? Parent: That’s a good question, _______________. What do you think? Child: Well, I think Jesus loved to be around children! Parent: Yes that’s right. He did love to be around them. And they loved to be around Him. Jesus had a special place in His heart for children. After all, He started out just like every other child! He was born a tiny baby, just like you were. He grew up just like you are and had to learn and study and pray and do all the things little children do. He was even a teenager once like your big sisters are! Child: Boy, I never thought about that before! Parent: (laughing) well, it’s true. Child: I think I would like to have been one of Jesus’ friends if I lived back then. I’ll bet He was a good friend. Parent: I’m sure He was Alicia. Child: I would especially like to have been one of the Nephite children when Jesus came and gave them all a blessing. Boy, that would be so special! Parent: Oh, yes! What a wonderful experience that would have been! Child: Mom, do you think when Jesus comes again I could get a blessing from Him? Parent: I’m sure you could dear (hugs child). (Short pause),______________ do you know why children are so special to Jesus? Child: Well, I think because He loves them so much. Parent: True…but He also used the example of children in many in His Parables and commandments. Do you remember when He said, “Except as ye become like little children, ye cannot enter into the kingdom of Heaven.”? Child: Yes, I remember that. And I’ve always wondered what it meant. What’s so special about children? Parent: Well, there’s an example right there. Children are so innocent and pure. They have an outlook on the world much different than grown-ups. They love everyone. They don’t feel hate or anger toward others, nor do they think any one person is better than another. I think Jesus wanted us grown-ups to try to have the kind of outlook on life that children do. They also have great faith. Remember the time when you climbed the big tree in the front yard almost to the very tippity top? And then you got so scared you couldn’t get down? Your Dad came out and told you to jump from the branch and he would catch you. You didn’t hesitate for a moment, but just jumped right down, and sure enough he caught you! That was having innocent faith. You didn’t stop to think about it, would he catch or wouldn’t he? Would he miss, or would you fall? You just jumped. You obeyed your Dad because you know he loves you and would never want to hurt you. That’s what our Father in Heaven is like. He has given us commandments to obey which will lead us back into His arms. All we have to do is obey! It’s as simple as that. The same simple faith you had in Dad when you were stuck in the tree. Child: Oh, I get it! Being stuck in the tree is kinda like being stuck here on earth! And if we obey the commandments we can jump from the tree and land in Heavenly Fathers’ arms! Cool! Parent: You see what I mean? That’s why Jesus so often talked of becoming like children so we could return to heaven and be with Him. Children throughout the world are following after the Savior and setting examples to their friends, teachers, and families. Many times it’s the children who set the standards in the home. How often do you and __________ remind Dad and me about family prayer or to study our scriptures today? Children can make home a bit like heaven with their sweet spirits and kindness. I think it’s because it hasn’t been very long since those little ones left their Father in Heaven and Jesus and came to earth! Child: Boy, I never thought about that. But I understand. Sometimes I feel so close to Jesus I could reach out and touch Him. I get all goosebumpy inside when I say my prayers, and when I read stories about Him. Parent: (very softly) And that’s how it should be ______________. We can all learn from the example of children. NO ROOM, NO ROOM My day began like all the rest, My babies I awoke, and kissed and dressed. Fixed breakfast while they watched tv, Then filled each growling, small tummy. Bundled them off their health to protect, The blizzard outside would not them affect. My husband arose as the day before, Showered and shaved and was out the door. Barely a kiss to exchange post haste, For I , too was in a scurrying pace. Off for the groceries, my cupboards to fill, Then to the cleaners, and drop off the bills. Lunch came and went without much ado, For today was the day for my new hairdo! Before I knew it the kids were home, “Too much homework,” they all said with a groan. The little ones all went out to play, They’d had quite enough school for that day. Soon time rolled around for dinner to make, Chicken to fry, potatoes to bake. My sweetheart arrives, his day is done. He asks the children how their day was won. Then dishes and laundry and baths to take, A round of tickles and smiles to make! Soon teeth are brushed and prayers are said, And before I collapse, they’re all in bed. My day now concludes, like all the rest. But looking back, “Did I do my best?” I filled their tummies, made sure they had coats, But what of their Spirits? What of their souls? I’m trying so hard a good mother to be, But did I forget about Christ, and what He means to me? Did I make time, my own well to fill, Studying His word, learning His will? In all of my giving, am I giving to Him, The place He deserves, making room for Him? ‘Tween dishes and laundry, homework and play, Did I teach my family of the Savior today? Dear Lord, please forgive me, my folly of late, Help me to remember the goals I have made. An Eternal Family is what I prize most, A dwelling in heaven, with Thee as the host. May I remember to each day make a part For Thee to be planted down deep in my heart. That my husband and children will easily see Our circle of love’s not complete without Thee. Are we making room for the Savior each day in our lives? Are the doors of our hearts or homes locked and barred...too full of the pleasures of the day to fit any more? Do we make the time to kneel at His manger each day, both in study and in prayer? Are we ready each and every day to give our best to Him, to live such that He may abide in our hearts and our homes always? (Pause) Are we seeking His face? (Pause) May we keep Him as this beautiful song suggests “evermore our guest, offering Him our best, the finest each soul can afford”... SHEPHERD, LEAVE THY SHEEP Broken Toys As children bring their toys, With tears, for us to mend; I brought my broken dreams to God, Because He was my friend. But then instead of leaving Him In peace to work alone, I hung around, and tried to help, In ways that were my own. At last, I snatched them back and cried, “How could you be so slow?” “My child,” He said, “What could I do? You never did let go...” Author Unknown Imagine, if you will, faithful shepherds on a lovely hillside outside of Bethlehem, watching over their flock. These were men of faith and knowledge. Men who were looking for a Messiah. It’s not likely that the angels picked just any shepherds to which to appear! Imagine the thrill they experienced as they followed the direction of the angels and went and saw the newborn babe, the Savior of the World. Imagine the disappointment of he who could not leave his flock unattended for fear they would wander or be eaten by wild animals. How foolish and sad he must have felt when the others returned and marveled at what they had seen. How that shepherd may have wished for the faith and courage he lacked to let go of the things of this world , turn things over to the Lord and go and obey. President Ezra Taft Benson in his 1986 Christmas Devotional said: “Men and women who turn their lives over to God will discover that He can make a lot more out of their lives than they can. He will deepen their joys, expand their vision, quicken their minds, strengthen their muscles, lift their spirits, multiply their blessings, increase their opportunities, comfort their souls, raise up friends, and pour out peace.” THE CHRISTMAS STORY Narrator 1: Luke 2, And it came to pass in those days that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed. And all went to be taxed, everyone into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Nazareth, into Judea unto the city of David, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be taxed with Mary, his espoused wife, being great with child. (Mary and Joseph have made their way into the room, and approach the innkeeper.) Joseph: Please, I beg of you. Yours is the last place in all the city; please, do you have a room for myself and my wife, who is about to have a baby. Innkeeper: I’m sorry, sir, but all my rooms are taken. There are so many in town just now. But wait! I do have a warm, clean place you might consider. It is around back, in the stable. There is fresh hay laid there. Come I’ll show you. (The three of them make their way to the “stable.” Mary gets the “baby” and kneels by the cradle , Joseph stands behind her. While they are getting settled, the narrator continues.) Narrator 1: And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the fields keeping watch over their flock by night. (Shepherds enter) Narrator: And Lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. (Angel enters shepherds act scared). Angel: 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 Savior, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you, ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger. Narrator : And suddenly there was with the angel, a multitude of heavenly hosts praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest and on earth, peace good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them (angel leave), the shepherds said one to another: Shepherd 1: Let us now go even unto Bethlehem and see this thing which has come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. Shepherd 2: Yes, let us depart. We shall leave our flocks for the angels to attend, and go to see the newborn King. Narrator : And they came with haste, and found Mary, Joseph and the babe lying in a manger. (Shepherds go to the “stable”.) Shepherd 1: Let us now go and tell all the world the news of this glorious event! Shepherd 2: And let us give thanks to God, for this wonderful gift of our Savior. (The Shepherds kneel as if praying.) Mary: Oh, Joseph! Look at him! What a beautiful child he is! And such a good baby. Why he hardly even cries when he wakes up. Joseph: Yes, he certainly is. And how lucky we are to know that our Savior has been born. He who will save the world from their sins! Mary: How true, Joesph. But right now he is just my beautiful little baby. Primary sings “Away in A Manger” WE THREE KINGS How are we conducting our own individual searches for the coming Messiah? Pres. James E. Faust in the April 98 conference recounted a story from the Church News: “A group of religious instructors were taking a summer course on the life of the Savior and focusing particularly on the parables. When the final exam time came, the students arrived at the classroom to find a note that the exam would be given in another building across campus. Moreover, the note said, it must be finished within the two hour time period that was starting almost at that moment. The students hurried across campus. On the way they passed a little girl crying over a flat tire on her new bike. An old man hobbled painfully toward the library with a cane on one hand, spilling his books from a stack he was trying to manage with the other. On a bench by the union building sat a shabbily dressed, bearded man in obvious distress. Rushing into the other classroom, the students were met by the professor who announced they had all flunked the final exam. The only true test of whether they understood the Savior’s life and teaching, he said, was how they treated people in need. Their weeks of study at the feet of a capable professor had taught them a great deal of what Christ had said and done. In their haste to finish the technicalities of the course, however, they failed to recognize the application represented by the three scenes that had been deliberately staged. They learned the letter, but not the spirit. Their neglect of the little girl and the two men showed the profound message of the course had not entered into their inward parts. The story is told of a fourth wise man, which had studied and prepared all his life for the coming of a “new King”. When the sign was seen, he sold all his possessions to purchase three jewels of great worth to be used as gifts for the newborn babe, a ruby, a sapphire and a pearl. Artaban set out toward his rendezvous with the other Magi. Along the way, however, he happened upon a man by the side of the road, stricken with a deadly fever. If he stopped to help him, he would be delayed and this most important journey to meet the king, but how could he turn his back on his fellowman in his hour of need? He stayed and nursed the man, leaving him finally with provisions and healing medicines. The other three kings were well ahead of him when finally reached the rendezvous, and Artaban was forced to return to the city and use his precious sapphire to buy supplies and camels to see him through the desert as their would be no trace of the trail of the other kings. Arriving in Bethlehem, he found himself in the midst of a most horrid event. Herod’s soldiers were about the city with dripping swords and bloody hands killing all the children who might grow up to challenge him as the rightful King! Artaban skillfully used his huge, red ruby to save the life of a child whose mother has been kind enough to offer him dinner and a place to sleep. Now with only his pearl left, he journeyed on. A Jewish rabbi had counseled Artaban to seek the Messiah, not among the rich, but among the poor. And so over the years we see Artaban passing through countries where famine lay heavy on the land and sharing his meager portions with the hungry. He made his dwelling place among the sick and downtrodden, constantly tending to their needs and continually searching for the Jewish King. He clothed the naked, fed the hungry, healed the sick and comforted the captive. Now 33 years later, he finds himself again in Jerusalem at the time of the Passover. The streets are thronged with people, who are moving toward Golgatha. He learns that a man who has done many good works and is know as King of the Jews is about to be executed. How strange those words fell upon the ears of Artaban. He thought of the lifetime he had spent searching for the Messiah, and now he was about to lose that chance forever! Wait!! The pearl! He could perhaps use the pearl to ransom the King from death! He quickly made his way through the crowd toward the hill Calvary. His path was cut off by a band of soldiers dragging a sobbing young woman with torn dress and bare feet. As they passed, the woman broke loose from her captors and threw herself at his feet. “Have pity on me, sir. My father was also a Magi, but he is dead and I am about to be sold into slavery!” Taking the pearl from his robe, Artaban looks closely at the priceless gem. It has taken on a unique beauty from all those of years of being carried close to his heart. He quickly held it out to the soldiers, paying the ransom for the young woman. Artaban hurried on, hoping to at least see the face the this king he head sought, though he now had no gift to give Him.Suddenly the earth trembled, and the sky darkened. A fierce storm arose and the wind howled. A roof tile was blown loose, striking Artaban in the head. He fell, his life streaming out of him.. “Not so, my Lord. When did I find thee naked and clothed thee, or hungry and fed thee, or thirsty and gave thee drink? When saw I thee a stranger and took thee in or visited thee in prison? Thirty-three years have I spent looking for thee, but I have never seen thy face, nor ministered unto thee!” “Verily, I say unto thee, that inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” As we search for the Messiah, may we discover that it is not at the end of the journey we find Him, but along the way. Top of page A Celebration of Jesus Christ's Birth submitted by Shauna E. Black
Behold, I, Samuel, a Lamanite, do speak the words of the Lord which he doth put into my heart...Behold, I give unto you a sign; for five years more cometh, and behold, then cometh the Son of God to redeem all those who shall believe on his name. And behold, this will I give unto you for a sign at the time of his coming: for behold, there shall be great lights in heaven, insomuch that in the night before he cometh there shall be no darkness, insomuch that it shall appear unto man as if it was day. Therefore, there shall be one day and a night and a day, as if it were one day and there were no night...And behold, there shall a new star arise, such an one as ye never have beheld; and this also shall be sign unto you." (Helaman 13:5 & 14:2-8) Tenor Solo - The Star of Bethlehem by Sally DeFord Narration #2a - Nephi "And it came to pass that I [Nephi] looked and beheld...the city of Nazareth; and in the city of Nazareth I beheld a virgin, and she was exceedingly fair and white...And [the angel] said unto me: Narration #2b - The Angel Behold, the virgin whom thou seest is the mother of the Son of God... Narration #2a - Nephi And I looked and beheld the virgin again, bearing a child in her arms. And the angel said unto me: Narration #2b - The Angel Behold the Lamb of God, yea, even the Son of the Eternal Father!" (1 Nephi 11:13 & 18-21) Choir and Congregation - Silent Night, Hymn # 204 Narration #3 "And so it was that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her first-born son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger: because there was no room for them in the inn." Flute and children's duet - Away in A Manger arranged by Sally DeFord Piano Solo (under the following narration) - The First Noel arranged by Sally DeFord Narration #4a "And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Narration #4b 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. And this shall be a sign unto you: Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. Narration #4a And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, good will toward men." (Luke 2:6-14) Ward Choir - Angel Chorus Medley Narration #5 "And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph and the babe lying in a manger. And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child." (Luke 2: 16-17) Ward Choir, Primary Chorus, Violin, Organ - He is Born, the Child Divine by Sally DeFord Narration #6 "...Behold there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem...And, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was...And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshiped him." (Matthew 2:1 & 9-11) Duet - What Child is This? arranged by Sally DeFord Narration #7 "...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." (Isaiah 25:9) Narration #8 "...and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins." (Matthew 1:21) Narration #9 "But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart." (Luke 2:19) Women's Chorus - Born to Wear a Crown
by Sally DeFord Narration #10a "Now it came to pass that...Nephi, the son of Nephi,...cried mightily unto the Lord all that day: and behold, the voice of the Lord came unto him, saying: Narration #10b - The Lord "Lift up your head and be of good cheer; for behold, the time is at hand, and on this night shall the sign be given, and on the morrow come I into the world, to show unto the world that I will fulfil all that which I have caused to be spoken by the mouth of my holy prophets. Behold, I come unto my own, to fulfil all things which I have made known unto the children of men from the foundation of the world, and to do the will, both of the Father and of the Son...and behold, the time is at hand, and this night shall the sign be given." Narration #10a "...behold, at the going down of the sun there was no darkness; and the people began to be astonished because there was no darkness when the night came...And it came to pass also that a new star did appear, according to the word." (3 Nephi 12-15 & 19-21) Soprano Solo, Choir, Congregation - Oh Holy Night arranged by Sally DeFord Top of page Submitted by Suzanne Reese (Draper, Utah)
Top of page A legend adapted by Karen Taylor, Phoenix, Arizona
Song by Children’s Choir—"Ring Ye Bells of Christmas" or "Christmas Bells" from Primary Children’s Songbook. Narrator: The music gladdened Martin’s heart. Two of the carolers stayed behind to visit with their friend the cobbler. Home Teacher #1: "Martin, we know that you are a hard-working cobbler, but we have a gift to give you." Home Teacher #2: "Have a Happy Christmas!" (They hand him a basket of food.) Martin: "Oh, thank you, my friends. I have felt the Christmas spirit so strongly this year. This morning at dawn, when the rooster crowed, the Lord whispered to me that He would come and visit me today. So you can see I have done my best to shine up my small home for Him. And now I have some wonderful food to spread on my table for Him! Thank you!" Narrator: And so the two friends went on their way and left Martin to joyously await his visit that day from the Lord. Song (Solo by Martin): "Would I Know My Savior?" (music free for reproduction by Sally Deford.) or "When He Comes Again" (2nd verse) Narrator: This was the happiest day Martin had known. Long since, his wife had passed away, his children living in other villages, and Martin had spent many lonely Christmas days. But he knew that this Christmas would be wonderful because the Savior himself would be the Christmas Guest. (KNOCK at the door) Narrator: It was Martin’s neighbor, a seamstress, who was trying to raise her children all alone on a very small salary. Neighbor: "Martin, I’m sorry to bother you. I seem to have run out of eggs and flour. I wanted to bake the children some cookies for tomorrow. Do you have some to spare?" (Martin turns half away and looks at the full basket as the Narrator speaks.) Narrator: Martin knew without his neighbor telling him that the rest of her cupboards were also bare. He hadn’t seen many customers in her door lately. Martin: "Come in, come in! I think cookies are a wonderful idea! Here’s some eggs and flour. And look what else! Someone left all this food here. What would one man need with all of this? You take it, as my gift to the children!’ Narrator: Martin walked his neighbor back to her home and children. He could hear the happy cries of laughter as she showed them her full basket. (Martin escorts the neighbor to the stairs and she shows the basket to the choir kids, who ooh, aah, and laugh.) Narrator: However, as Martin returned to his shop to wait for the Lord’s visit, he saw the bare table. What could he offer the Savior when He came? Song by Children’s Choir: The Jesus Gift or "I’m Trying to Be Like Jesus" Narrator: The afternoon passed quickly. At every sound, Martin looked up, expecting to see the Lord at his door. The scripture came to his mind as a prayer: "Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. Amen." (KNOCK at the door. It’s a very dirty, skinny, barefoot man, holding a pair of worn out shoes in his hand.) Man: "Hey, I’m just passin’ through, and I heard your hammer. Can you fix these old shoes? I don’t have any money…(man turns away)…Oh, forget it, I won’t bother you." Martin: "No, come in, you’ve come to the right place! Your feet must be almost frozen. I have some shoes in my shop that I think will fit you just right. You don’t want these any more. And…(Martin takes off his coat)…take this. It will keep you warm as you get to where you’re going." Narrator: With a surprised and grateful heart, one that hadn’t softened for many a day, the traveler left Martin’s shop. Martin returned to his bench and saw with dismay that the hours of the day had passed quickly. It was evening, and the Lord had not come as he had promised! Had Martin misunderstood? He bowed his head and wept for a few moments. Had he missed the precious visit? …As he wept, sleep overcame him, and with it, a dream. He saw a hillside in Bethlehem. Song by Soloist: Silent Night (1st verse only) As the second verse is hummed by the children’s choir, the dialog continues: Lord: "Martin. Martin!" Martin: "Lord, You have come!" Lord: "Martin, I visited you many times today. How comfortable you made me feel when my feet were frozen. How happy you made me when my children were fed. Martin, "Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me…To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world." Martin: "Lord!" Children’s Choir and Soloist sing "Christ the Savior is Born! Christ the Savior is Born!" THE END Top of page Submitted by Laura Owings (Garden Grove, California) Top of page Submitted by Becky Woolf (Globe, Arizona) Top of page Submitted by Raquel Lonas (Carlsbad, California) Top of page Submitted by Katie Gauger (Alpine, Utah) Top of page Submitted by Jennifer Morgan (Eagle Mountain, Utah) Top of page Submitted by Carl W. McBrayer Top of page Submitted by Carl W. McBrayer Top of page Submitted by Michael J. Peterson Top of page |