Closer to Christ with Riley

Today being Christmas Day, I received some wonderful presents. They were all thoughtful, however, there were some gifts from a dear friend which helped me reflect on the reason for Christmas. These gifts were the most meaningful. They reminded me of my Savior's love for me. He Who is called the First Gift of Christmas was born and gave His life for me. My Savior loves me so much that He provided a way for me to fix my mistakes I've made, and heal the hurt I've felt. He loves me so much that He has helped me grow even though it hurts, for He knows it will make me better and more like Him. My Savior has given me His love in times of need. I have been truly blessed by getting to know my Savior better and reflecting on the true reason for Christmas. I invite you to do the same. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. See related scripture: John 15:13

Thursday, I watched it snow, I've been thinking about all of us as people. We are all God's children, each one a snowflake. As I watched the snow falling, I had a thought about how each person, like each snowflake, is unique. Not even a sparrow falls without God's notice. (See Matthew 10:29 ) God must know all the individual snowflakes. Surely He knows you  individually. I know He loves you more than anything. If you don't know this for yourself, I invite you to pray to God and ask Him if He loves you, and listen to the answer. He will answer you just as He has answered me.

This Christmas, I'm thankful that my mom encourages us to learn about different cultures. Tonight for dinner, my family had latkes. I'm thankful that we have a time of the year where many people can celebrate together. It's a blessing to have many cultures around us each with unique things to contribute to the celebration of Christmas and of family and other important values that bring us together. How are you celebrating this year?

Today I'll have the wonderful blessing of volunteering in a unique way. Right now at the mall in Orem, Utah, and a few other locations in the United States, there are special vending machines called "Giving Machines." Instead of dispensing candy or other items for personal use, these machines vend cards symbolic of donations. When you select a donation like a pair of shoes or textbooks, your donation card drops into a clear bin below. Your donation will be recorded and all  of your money will be used by a local or global charity to purchase the item you chose or one that best suits the needs of others. Come check out the Giving Machines or learn more at lighttheworld.org !