THE STORY OF MARY

A few years ago I had the chance to go to BYU-Idaho's production of "Savior of the World". It is one of the most beautiful productions I've seen about Christ and Christmas. It bridges the traditional story from Luke with Nephi's vision in the Book of Mormon. 

One of my favorite parts is how Mary is portrayed. It begins with her engagement to Joseph. She expresses her love for him and her willingness to be a covenant keeper in the gospel of Christ as she prepares for her marriage. Along the way she is visited by an angel and her world changes. As you know, she is told that she will be the mother of the Son of God. 

I remember thinking that evening that she was my new role model. She obviously was raised by righteous parents who taught her to love God, develop her own testimony, to cherish her relationship with her Father in Heaven, to marry a righteous husband, and seek for things of holiness, not of the world. 

Although her story is short, it has been one of the most touching and inspiring stories to me, as a woman and daughter of God. 

So, I was very excited last night when, during the First Presidency's Christmas Devotional, they shared a few clips of their new collection of Bible videos. It began with Mary pondering...similar to "Savior of the World". I was again touched with her holiness and worthiness as the angel tells her that she is highly favorited of the Lord. At that moment I recommitted myself to be more like Mary. To put more effort into doing things of a spiritual nature that will bring me closer to the Lord as well as strengthen my testimony.

I share this because it has touched me and changed me for good. It has made me pause and reflect on the real reason of this holiday season. It has lifted my spirits, given me hope, new motivation, and a desire to do better and be better every single day. I hope you too have a moment to stop, listen, and be touched by the spirit of this time of year to be changed for the better.

photo sources: 1, 2, 3