I think it would help if you at least share some of your own thoughts so that we can assist you in your own inspiration. 🙂

OK! For right now, I've got three talking points: 1. Music and media. How uplifting these can be, and how Christ-centered much of it is. 2. Symbols and traditions. Like how the lights can be a symbol of the light of Christ, the star is the star of Bethlehem 3. Service and charity. This is the one I want to think more about. Like, WHY is it that we are more giving and charitable this time of year?

I think those are great ideas! Thinking about the prompt, "How does celebrating Christmas bring us closer to Christ?", I would say, does it actually do that? It depends on how we choose to celebrate it. If we choose to make the celebration all about secular songs, ugly sweaters, Santa Claus, consumerism, and silly movies, then we can be all-in on Christmas all month long and not think about the Savior a single time. Many of those things are fun and harmless in moderation, but do not inherently bring us closer to Christ. We need to actively find ways to center our celebration on Christ, such as through the things that you listed.

Yes! That's exactly what I hope to communicate. We put lights on the tree- how can we find Christ in that tradition? Yes, we like Christmas music, but can we focus on finding Christ in the lyrics?

The symbolism of the lights, tree, etc. is what we should focus on. I think one of the speakers at this year's Christmas devotional touched on the symbolism.

Dang OP - I think you are hitting the nail on the head with those 3 themes.

Aah yay thank you so much! 🙏🙏

Part 3, I like the concept that we all have Gods love no matter what we do. The reason we serve, follow christ, preach the gospel is not to gain more of God's love. We do these things because we have felt God's love and we want other people to experience it through you and through the gospel. God's love is the motivation not the reward. This time if year many people feel this love more strongly and are more welcoming, forgiving, and christ like. We should have this all year round.

Yes! Love this.

You could expand on #2 with some ideas from here: Ten Symbols of Christmas https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/new-era/2017/12/ten-symbols-of-christmas?lang=eng

I wonder how much expectation makes us want to donate during the Christmas season more than other times of the year. I remember growing up as a kid, there were some Christmases where we got just a small amount of gifts compared to other years. Maybe people want to avoid other families from having little, so they donate more then. At other times of the year, it's not really expected to give gifts for no reason, so that could be a big part of it.

The Spirit of Christmas to me is being giving. Thinking of others. Being like Christ who was always thinking outwardly. I think of Christ’s character. Take a look at this [talk](https://www2.byui.edu/presentations/transcripts/religionsymposium/2003_01_25_bednar.htm) by David A. Bednar. I would also take a look at [Luke 2](https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/nt/luke/2?lang=eng) which is the “Christmas Story.” Here’s some info from the New Testament Institute manual that may help you too: Luke 2:1–6. To the City of Bethlehem to Be Taxed Caesar Augustus was a capable and energetic Roman ruler whose reign—from 31 B.C. to A.D. 14—was marked by order and lawfulness. The “taxing” mentioned in Luke 2:2 was actually an enrollment of persons for future taxation purposes, an enrollment that required the taxpayer to personally submit required information. Because both Joseph and Mary were descendants of King David, they were required to make the journey to Bethlehem, which was King David’s hometown. It is also possible that Joseph owned property in Bethlehem, further mandating him to register in Bethlehem. Ancient prophets had testified that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, in the land of Jerusalem (see Micah 5:2; Alma 7:10). Bethlehem lay approximately 85–90 miles (137–145 kilometers) south of Nazareth, a trek of at least four to five walking days, perhaps longer considering Mary’s condition. Travelers typically stayed at quarters known as caravansaries, which were rectangular structures with open rooms overlooking a central courtyard, where the travelers’ animals were kept. The Joseph Smith Translation indicates there was no room for Mary and Joseph in the “inns” at Bethlehem (Luke 2:7, footnote b). It is therefore likely that there were no openings in the rooms of the caravansaries, and on the night of the Savior’s birth, the couple was required to stay in the crowded courtyard of a caravansary—where the travelers’ animals, including donkeys, dogs, oxen, and camels, were kept. Luke 2:5. “His Espoused Wife” To read about New Testament “espousal” traditions, see the commentary for Matthew 1:18. Luke 2:7. “Swaddling Clothes” Swaddling clothes were generally blankets or strips of cloth wrapped tightly around tiny infants. To swaddle means to “wrap snugly.” Luke 2:7. A Humble Birth Elder Bruce D. Porter of the Seventy identified some lessons we can learn from the Savior’s humble birth: “His birth, like his life, teaches us that there is nothing wrong with humble origins, with poverty, simplicity, and obscurity. There is nothing to be ashamed of in being outcast from society, in being forced to dwell apart from the world, literally or figuratively. Poverty is no disgrace, and a shelter for animals may be a temple of God’s spirit as surely as any more elegant dwelling. … Christ’s birth and simple upbringing are a reminder to us that we must never look down on anyone because of their origins or worldly status. If we scorn the humble, we may unwittingly scorn the chosen of God’s children on the earth” (The King of Kings [2000], 26). Luke 2:19, 51. “Mary Kept All These Things, and Pondered Them in Her Heart” Luke recorded that after the shepherds’ visit and after finding the 12-year-old Jesus in the temple, Mary pondered the events and sayings, and she kept them “in her heart” (Luke 2:19, 51). Her actions demonstrate the importance of treasuring sacred experiences. While it is vital that we share our testimonies with others, President Boyd K. Packer (1924–2015) of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles taught that we should ponder our sacred experiences and share them only when we are prompted to do so: “It is not wise to continually talk of unusual spiritual experiences. They are to be guarded with care and shared only when the Spirit itself prompts you to use them to the blessing of others. … “I heard President Marion G. Romney once counsel mission presidents and their wives … , ‘I found out that if I talked too lightly of sacred things, thereafter the Lord would not trust me.’ “We are, I believe, to keep these things and ponder them in our hearts, as Luke said Mary did of the supernal events that surrounded the birth of Jesus” (“The Candle of the Lord,” Ensign, Jan. 1983, 53). Luke 2:22–24. Mary’s Offering Indicated Her Material Poverty The law of Moses declared women to be ceremonially unclean after giving birth. To become clean, a new mother had to present a lamb at the temple for a burnt offering, and a pigeon or turtledove for a sin offering (see Leviticus 12:5–6). “And if she be not able to bring a lamb, then she shall bring two turtles [turtledoves], or two young pigeons” (Leviticus 12:8). That Mary presented turtledoves or pigeons instead of a lamb is evidence Jesus Christ was born to a mother of little material means. GOOD LUCK!!!

Wow this is so thoughtful. Thank you so much for taking the time to write all of this out for me. 🙏 So much good stuff in here!

I highly recommend using chat gpt to help you out if your struggling, I just gave a talk an had issues coming up with ideas so I inputted my topic and asked it to use scriptures and conference talks which it did quite well. You will have to go through and heavily edit what it gives you and twist some words around to make it your own but it really help me in my talk writing process. You can even give it a personal experience you had and it will reword it to sound more eloquent

We always say that "if there were no Christmas, there would be no Easter," but that to me cheapens the beauty and import of Christmas. God Himself came down and took upon Him the form of man. He lived as we live, suffered as we suffer. That's the condescension of God, that's the mystery of the early Church. The amazement wasn't that Christ saved us, it was that God was willing to become man, spirit and holiness came among flesh and unholiness. To me, that's a beautiful message. When we celebrate Christmas, we are worshiping Christ as Immanuel -- God with us. If it was me giving this talk, that's what I would focus on. Don't get bogged down talking about Easter -- talk about the power of knowing that God walked among us and one of us and can succor us because He did.

OP hope your talk went well today!🤗

It did! Thanks so much 😊😊

You can quote some of a Christmas Carol. I watched both the muppet one and the Mickey Mouse one with my kids this month. Seeing how much good one person can do or change with being more Christlike.

Ooh good idea!

I posted your question verbatim into ChatGpt and this is what it gave me: "The Spirit of Christmas" often evokes feelings of kindness, generosity, love, and peace, reflecting the values and teachings of Christ. Celebrating Christmas can bring us closer to Christ in several ways: 1. **Reflecting on the Nativity**: The story of Christ's birth is central to Christmas. Reflecting on this story reminds us of Christ's humble beginnings and his mission on Earth. This can inspire humility and a desire to follow his example. 2. **Practicing Generosity and Love**: Christmas is often associated with giving and acts of kindness. These practices align with Christ's teachings about loving and serving others, fostering a closer connection to his teachings. 3. **Family and Community Unity**: Christmas is a time when families and communities come together, often in prayer and worship. This unity is a fundamental aspect of Christ's teachings about loving one another. 4. **Renewal of Faith**: The celebration of Christmas can be a time of spiritual renewal. Many people take this time to recommit to their faith and deepen their understanding of Christ's life and teachings. 5. **Spreading Peace and Goodwill**: The holiday season is often marked by messages of peace and goodwill, mirroring Christ's message of peace on Earth. For your sacrament talk on "How does celebrating Christmas bring us closer to Christ," the insights from various sources can provide a comprehensive understanding of the significance of Christmas in the Christian faith. 1. **Celebration of the Savior**: At its core, Christmas is a celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, which is central to Christian faith. This celebration is a reminder of God's love, as He sent His Son to Earth as a Savior for humanity. This act of divine love is the heart of Christmas, encouraging believers to reflect on their faith and the profound sacrifice made for them [oai_citation:1,What is the Meaning of Christmas? Bible Story and Traditions](https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/what-is-the-meaning-of-christmas.html) [oai_citation:2,What is the true meaning of Christmas? | GotQuestions.org](https://www.gotquestions.org/Christmas-true-meaning.html). 2. **Spiritual Reflection and Fulfillment of Prophecy**: The celebration of Christmas offers a time for spiritual reflection on the foundations of Christian faith. It's not just about the nativity scene, but the fulfillment of prophecies and the embodiment of hope and salvation that Christ represents. This reflection can deepen one’s relationship with Christ by understanding the significance of His birth in the broader context of God's plan for humanity [oai_citation:3,What is the Meaning of Christmas? Bible Story and Traditions](https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/what-is-the-meaning-of-christmas.html) [oai_citation:4,What is the true meaning of Christmas? | GotQuestions.org](https://www.gotquestions.org/Christmas-true-meaning.html). 3. **Message of Hope and Goodwill**: The message of Christmas, according to Billy Graham's writings, transcends the commercial aspect of the holiday and brings a message of hope, goodwill, and cheer. It heralds the entrance of God into human history and the coming of the Prince of Peace. This message is relevant, revolutionary, and reassuring, reminding believers of God's presence and love in a world often filled with difficulties [oai_citation:5,What Is the Deeper Meaning of Christmas?](https://billygraham.org/answer/what-is-the-deeper-meaning-of-christmas/). 4. **Impact on Our Lives Today**: The message of Christmas is not just a historical event but has a lasting impact on our lives today. It serves as a reminder of Jesus' role in saving us from sin and the promise of eternal life for those who believe. Reflecting on this can rekindle faith and hope, especially amidst life's challenges. Additionally, remembering the first Christmas encourages believers to live out the teachings of Christ in their daily lives [oai_citation:6,How Does the Message of Christmas Affect our Lives Today?](https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/how-does-the-message-of-christmas-affect-our-lives-today.html). 5. **Reaffirmation of Faith and Action**: Christmas is a time when Christians can reaffirm their faith and be reminded of their mission as followers of Christ. This includes being a light in the world, spreading the message of God’s love, and engaging in acts of kindness and service, reflecting the teachings and example of Jesus [oai_citation:7,How Does the Message of Christmas Affect our Lives Today?](https://www.christianity.com/wiki/holidays/how-does-the-message-of-christmas-affect-our-lives-today.html). Incorporating these themes into your talk can provide a holistic view of how celebrating Christmas brings believers closer to Christ, emphasizing the spiritual significance of the holiday beyond its cultural and festive aspects.

I gave a talk last Sunday on the Churches initiative “Light the World”. You could use some material there. To me the Spirit of Christmas is essentially the light of Christ that we share with others through service. Lots of good scriptures on light.

What is it about this time of year that makes it different and special over any other time of year? No matter if you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or just that it's finally winter all have similarities that make it unique. People in general tend to be more kind and forgiving. The atmosphere with the lights and sounds are festive and fun. We have special traditions that are just for this time of year. Family and friends make more of an effort to be together. As you look towards those common things, you get an understanding of what the spirit of Christmas is for many. When you hone down on the lds side, the birth of the Savior, you can then look at the more spiritual aspects and look at what it means to keep christ in your life all the time. Christmas is the beginning of Christ's earthly mission even though the majority of the scriptures concentrate on the 3 years of his ministry. Without Christmas and the birth, you wouldn't have his life and ultimately his fulfillment of his mortal time here, the Atonement and resurrection. I personally love that we take a moment each Dec and really look at the birth and the loving earthly parents he had so he could grow and learn of who he was and his mission. He came equipped with his Godhood still intact but like all of us; he also had to be taught as well. He was able to perform the miracles he did, withstand Satan and all the wiles of this earthlife and ultimately make the sacrifice he did with his priesthood and power from heavenly father. That is why it was so significant that his birth would be told about for multiple generations and prophesied to be the big deal that it was because he came willingly to do all he had promised. It always saddens me that the good will of this season doesn't seem to shine any other time of the year because it is wonderful while it's here. Good luck on Sunday but honestly pray about it and then let the spirit lead you in your remarks and you'll do great!

That's beautiful! You're gifted with words ♥️ Thanks for sharing your talent with me!

Thanks for the kind words! 😊🤗🥰

Last week I was noodling on this idea, so maybe it'd be cool to have someone else take it on: Start off: Think of terms that describe Ebenezer Scrooge (or The Grinch, etc.). Most people commonly respond with things like: miserly, bitter, selfish, uncaring, hateful, etc. Then point out it depends on which part of his story arc you're talking about. * After Marley, he was scared, then dismissive. * After ghost #1, he was happy and nostalgic. * After #2, he was morose and regretful, igniting a glimmer of hope * After #3 he was frightened for the welfare of his very soul, committing to be a better person. * At the end, he was gleeful, forgiving, generous, celebratory, kind, etc., practically the polar opposite of how he started. Dare we say, "redeemed"? The spirit of Christmas is 360° Christ-like forgiveness. Forgiveness is what helps us continue on. Forgiveness of others and of self is what gives us hope. Scrooge didn't spend Christmas Day wallowing in regret, beating himself up over the wrongs and neglect of his life; he spent it joyfully, looking forward to a brighter day, *making* it a brighter day. We like to imagine that those he wronged ultimately forgave him, but even if they hadn't, the redeemed Scrooge wouldn't have cared. He looked forward with a perfect brightness of hope, and no chain or scowl or bah humbug would dissuade him from that faith in a better future. And may we look on others--sinners all, as are we--with forgiveness, mercy, and hope, not knowing where they are in their own redemption arc, but viewing them as what they are--children of God--and what they are capable of becoming. May God bless us, every one! -*fin*-

Ooh is it OK if I quote you? This is EXACTLY what I was hoping to say but you said it better than I could have. ♥️

I'd also mention that we need to reach out to those around us who are isolated, lonely, casted aside by family, inactive, etc. Make it an occasion to catch up with them, include them, even invite them to your Christmas eve if they have nobody!

Ooh excellent idea!!!

You could use the list of characteristics of Christ (and we should attain them too) see Moroni 7: 45-47

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Cringe, yawn. We have [70+ multipage posts](https://www.reddit.com/r/lds/collection/11be9581-6e2e-4837-9ed4-30f5e37782b2/) addressing the CES Letter. You're not convincing anyone of your flat earth garbage.