"What do you want?" is the recurring question throughout the month of December. I have a better question. What does God want? It is His birthday we are celebrating.
He answers that question: "Love one another, as I have loved you." Feed the hungry. Clothe the naked. Visit the sick. Liberate the captive. Where are they? All around us. Years ago, I was taught about the have and have nots. Everyone has something to give. Everyone needs something from someone else. We all are haves and have nots. Several years ago we befriended a refugee family from another country. Their warmth and kindness back to us is far greater than we have ever given. Often the greatest need is in our homes. Our children and spouses may hunger for approval, need to be clothed in acceptance and taught God's laws and blessings that they may be free.
What does God want? He wants us to make His will ours. Many older couples give freely of their time and money to serve missions. I loved these words Elder Oaks shared from the application of a couple missionary: "Will go anywhere and do what is asked."
And there is the perfect birthday gift for God. "Will go anywhere and do what is asked." There is faith and trust. There is the quest of a lifetime. That kind of allegiance and obedience is protective. It is liberating and life giving. That is the answer to the more compelling Christmas question.
