Samuel and the Star

Many ancient years ago, and far from Galilee, a man of God named Samuel gave a prophecy.

He told the people many things about our Savior’s birth. He spoke to them of Jesus Christ and how He’d come to earth.

The people didn’t listen. Their hearts were full of doubt. So they took Samuel to the city gate and threw him out.

But Samuel would not give up. He had to let them know. He climbed atop the city wall and called to them below.

“In just five years the Lord will come, upon a starlit night, to save mankind from all their sins and give the world His light.”

“And even though it’s in five years, and though it’s far away, the sun will set, the night begin, but be as bright as day.”

The people fumed and stomped their feet. They said no Christ would come.

They flung their stones. Their arrows flew. They missed him, every one.

The faithful waited, breathlessly, in hopes they would behold—the star, the light, the promises, more precious far than gold.

Then in five years, in Bethlehem, Christ lay in a manger stall. They saw the light and knew He’d come, their Savior, Lord of all.

And as it always comes to pass, when prophets are so bold, the Lord fulfills His promises, like Samuel’s made of old.

You can watch this video in the Gospel Media library in the “Inspiration” collection. Or read the account in Helaman 13–15; 3 Nephi 1:13–15, 21.