LDS World: Two December births to celebrate: Jesus Christ and Joseph Smith

By Kristine Frederickson, For the Deseret News

Published: Sunday, Dec. 18 2011 5:00 a.m. MST

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For the Deseret News

Summary

Joseph Smith Jr. was born Dec. 23, 1805. In many ways his life paralleled that of his Savior, Jesus Christ, and his devotion to Christ was unrivaled. As Christmas approaches, not only should we worship our Savior but we should remember his prophet.

"Joseph Smith was 38…and henceforward their names will be classed among the martyrs of religion; and the reader in every nation will be reminded that the Book of Mormon, and (this book of) Doctrine and Covenants of the church, cost the best blood of the 19th century to bring them forth for the salvation of a ruined world… They lived for glory; they died for glory; and glory is their eternal reward" (see Doctrine and Covenants 135).

Jesus Christ, whose birth we commemorate on Dec. 25 is the Savior of the world. Joseph Smith is his prophet and how fitting that we remember both this time of year. Both lived humbly yet courageously, seeking to do the will of their father. We should remember Joseph Smith on his birthday, Dec. 23, and give worship on Dec. 25 for the author and finisher of faith, Jesus Christ.

Kristine Frederickson writes on issue-oriented topics that affect members of the LDS Church worldwide in her column “LDS World."

Email: kfrederickson@desnews.com

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Featured Comments

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Ronald Uharriet

SWun City, Ca.

What is said is true, however it adds fuel to the General Christian world opinion that the Church spends too much time selling the Church and not enough time selling the life of Christ.

I dont think that the life of Joseph Smith or any More..

9:56 a.m. Dec. 18, 2011
Top comment

Bill in Nebraska

Maryville, MO

It doesn't surprise me to see the critics show their disdain for this story. Yet, what the author said and what John Taylor wrote as an eulogy speaks the truth of all. Joseph Smith the prophet of the restoration. A young boy chosen to restore the More..