Jesus Christ is the gift

Dear Mama and Papi, 

First of all, I'm glad you think I look wonderful, because I've gained weight here in Champotón... Haha. I'm so glad to hear that the twins are home! Truly much faith was involved due to the blessings and also numerous prayers on their behalf. It is a grand testimony that our Heavenly Father hears our prayers and blesses us when we are obedient and exercise faith.

This last week was kinda low for work, but something that's getting me excited because of the results they give us is something that the church is using worldwide right now, which is something called "He Is The Gift". It's the church's reminder to the world about the true meaning of Christmas and of what the true gift of Christmas is: Jesus Christ, the only begotten of the Father in the flesh. I was having a bit of trouble getting in the Christmas mood too, because for me, Christmastime means snow, my Guess coat/blue scarf combination, the family (of course), and Wonderful Christmastime by Paul McCartney. As you know, it's nearly endless sun out here, so it just doesn't feel too much like Christmas, however, when I put things into perspective, things started to change. Us as missionaries are doing a ton to promote "He Is The Gift" ("Él Es La Dádiva", in spanish.) because it reminds us exactly why we are filled with joy or should be filled with joy this season. The Christmas devotional last night really lifted my spirits as well and I just loved the spirit. (My face was filled with a smile as the choir performed. Ah...)

For you, mama, what you have with your friend that you're training at work is a golden opportunity to share this message with her, being that it is the holiday season. "He Is The Gift" is composed of three crucial steps: discover the gift, accept the gift, and finally, share the gift. We must first discover and understand what is God's gift to us. Jesus Christ is the gift, and it is through Him and ONLY Him that we can receive the blessings that await us in the eternities. After we understand Christ and His atonement, we accept Him as our saviour through baptism by a priesthood authority, receiving the gift of the Holy by the laying on of hands, and enduring to the end. When we are truly converted to Him, we then share the gift with others whom we love. With "He Is The Gift", we remind others of this, especially during this Christmas of 2014.

I invite you (and all who read this) to talk to your local missionaries about this and take part in a worldwide reminder of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. They have special pass along cards right now that help immensely to start a conversation about this. (Which lead to a special site with a special video.) This might sound like a shameless plug, being that I'm a missionary, but this is truly an inspired opportunity that brings joy and a special spirit. Of this I testify in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. Please say hi to Bishop for me, as well as Brother Edwards, Brother Crowther, and the rest of the ward, please. Ne'er has there ever been a ward family like them, and I love them dearly. Well, that's all for this week! Later!

Love, Elder Manuel Antonio Santos

PS, Para mi biejo: Feliz 12 de Diciembre!