Suggested Hymns:
It Came Upon the Midnight Clear (Hymns 207)
Hark! the Herald Angels Sing (Hymns 209)

Read:
Isaiah 11:1-9
2 Nephi 19:2-4, 6-7

Discuss:
What did Isaiah prophesy would happen when Christ came?
As disciples of Christ, what is our role in helping to bring about the fulfillment of these promises?

Read:
"I would that the healing power of Christ might spread over the earth and be diffused through our society and into our homes, that it might cure men's hearts of the evil and adverse elements of greed and hate and conflict. I believe it could happen. I believe it must happen. If the lamb is to lie down with the lion, then peace must overcome conflict; healing must mend injury.

"Jesus of Nazareth healed the sick among whom he moved. His regenerating power is with us today to be invoked through his holy priesthood. His divine teachings, his incomparable example, his matchless life, his all-encompassing sacrifice will bring healing to broken hearts, reconciliation to those who argue and shout, even peace to warring nations if sought with humility and forgiveness and love.

"As members of the Church of Jesus Christ, ours is a ministry of healing, with a duty to bind the wounds and ease the pain of those who suffer. Upon a world afflicted with greed and contention, upon families distressed by argument and selfishness, upon individuals burdened with sin and troubles and sorrows, I invoke the healing power of Christ, giving my witness of its efficacy and wonder. I testify of him who is the great source of healing. He is the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world, 'The Sun of Righteousness,' who came 'with healing in his wings.' " (Gordon B. Hinckley, Faith: The Essence of True Religion [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1989], 35)

Discuss:
In what ways do greed, hate, and conflict manifest themselves in today's society?
As citizens, what can we do to promote peace and reconciliation or to alleviate suffering and need?
How does such service help to diffuse Christ's healing power through society?

Activity:
Make a Christmas donation of time or money to an organization that promotes peace or social justice.