Jesus Christ Was Born and Presented in the Temple

“She brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger” (Luke 2:7).

Jesus Christ was born to be the Savior of the world. Mary and Joseph journeyed to Bethlehem. Away from the crowded inn, Mary gave birth to Jesus in a stable. Angels appeared to shepherds, who then went to see the baby Jesus. After the shepherds left to tell everyone what they had seen and heard, “Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart” (Luke 2:19).

“The Christ Child”

Simeon had been waiting for the Messiah, and he finally received a personal prompting that the day had come. Following that prompting to the temple, Simeon was blessed with a one-on-one encounter with the Messiah he had been seeking.

Anna spent much of her time in the temple. One day, Anna had a unique and personal experience with the Savior.

Scriptures and Questions

Luke 2:1–38

What have you felt or learned about as you read the Christmas story?

What do you think individuals who saw baby Jesus (such as the shepherds, Simeon, and Anna) shared with others about their firsthand experiences? What do you feel inspired to tell people about Him?

Record your impressions.

Song

“What Child Is This?,” Hymns—For Home and Church, no. 1203

Activity for Children

Use the Nativity cutouts to make your own Nativity scene. You can also use a prepared play script to tell the Nativity story or use your imagination to create your own script.

Service Ideas

Pray for someone by name.
Call someone you miss.
Give a friend a hug.