As thoughts of turkeys and Pilgrims give way to snowmen and Santa, we know that Christmas is just around the corner. And while snow, presents and Old St. Nick are fun, the real joy of Christmas is found in celebrating the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the light and life of the world. The scriptures teach,
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life (John 8:12).
Elder Dallin H. Oaks explained,
Jesus Christ is the light of the world because he is the source of the light that quickens our understanding, because his teachings and his example illuminate our path, and because his power persuades us to do good.
As we follow the example and teachings of Jesus Christ, our lamps shine brighter and brighter. It is in this spirit that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is again launching the #LightTheWorld campaign for Christmas.
What is #LightTheWorld?
#LightTheWorld is a series of 25 Days, 25 Ways to serve others. Jesus Christ spent His life in the in the service of others, and encourages His followers to do the same. Elder Adrian Ochoa said,
We know that the Savior identified Himself as the Light of the World (see John 9:5; 12:46). But in the Sermon on the Mount, He declared the same thing of His followers:
“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.
“Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14–16).
Sharing our light—that is, reflecting the Savior’s light (see 3 Nephi 18:24)—is something we can do all of our lives….
As we serve others, we are spreading the light of the Savior. Elder David A. Bednar said,
As our Great Exemplar, the Lord lived a perfect life, ministering one by one in love and service. Like Him, we can exemplify and share His light and love with those around us.
And what better time to let our light shine than at Christmastime, when we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ?
How Can I Participate?
The #LightTheWorld campaign begins on Dec. 1, with 25 days of videos, suggestions and sharing our light with others. The videos share teachings of our Savior, Jesus Christ. There is also a downloadable calendar as well as a link to see what others are doing. And we can share our own stories of faith, service and celebrating the birth of the Savior. That is the purpose of this campaign. Elder Bednar explained,
May we increasingly learn and more fully understand that Jesus Christ is the “light which shineth in darkness.” In every season of our lives, in all of the circumstances we may encounter, and in each challenge we may face, the Savior is the light that dispels fear, provides assurance and direction, and engenders enduring peace and joy. May the beautiful lights of every Christmas season remind us of Him who is the source of all light. …
This Christmas season I invite you to seek opportunities to “Light the World.” Beginning December 1 and continuing through Christmas Day, you can learn how to “light the way for others” by visiting mormon.org. Feel free to share appropriately your experiences on social media using the hashtag #LIGHTtheWORLD so that others can learn about the “good news” of the Savior’s birth, His life, and His perfect Atonement for all mankind.
