“Contents,” Ensign, December 2016 Contents December 2016 Volume 46 • Number 12 Messages First Presidency Message Peace in This Life President Henry B. Eyring Visiting Teaching Message Family Joy Is Found in Righteousness Young Adult Features “Let’s Make That Our Motto” Christopher Lambe I shared the story of Helaman’s stripling warriors with my fellow soldiers, which inspired us to make obeying “with exactness” our motto. Creating Our Happy Ending Yuri Kutepov I was determined to marry in the temple, but the Lord led me to my eternal companion in an unexpected way. Faith, Hope, and Charity: Interlacing Virtues Elder Chi Hong (Sam) Wong When woven together, faith, hope, and charity can help us become better followers of Christ. Finals Week Inspiration Megan Nelson Why was I able to finish my school paper so much earlier than expected? The spiritual impression I received led me to the answer. Features By Study and by Faith Elder M. Russell Ballard It takes both study and faith for effective gospel learning, and teachers play a valuable role in helping students combine the two. Fleeing for Faith and Freedom Eva Walburger In their escape to freedom, my parents experienced the blessings of the gospel in more ways than one. Preparing a Place for the Lord Bishop Gérald Caussé Each of us has a duty to prepare for the coming of our Savior. The 10th International Art Competition: Tell Me the Stories of Jesus Enjoy these 16 selections depicting the Savior. Christmas Peace in the Midst of War J Stanford Staheli A true account from World War II shows how the message of Christ’s birth transcends time and place. Tumbleweeds and Christmas Stars Andrew L. Sorenson With a little ingenuity, a group of missionaries find a way to make the season bright. Why Is Unity Important? Barbara A. Lewis Blessings of harmony and peace can be ours as we apply the Lord’s standard: “If ye are not one ye are not mine.” The Divine Power of Grace Elder James J. Hamula All of us need the Lord’s grace. Here are six ways we can access this enabling power. Heavy Trials, Tender Mercies Alice Warner Johnson Living with a debilitating disease has helped me recognize how the Lord remembers and blesses each of us. Poem: In His Hands Heather Kyle The Master gently shapes and molds us into what He knows we can be. Scarlet, Crimson, Snow, and Wool Through the prophet Isaiah, we learn about the power of the Savior’s Atonement. Coming Home to Your Mission Wendy Ulrich and Dave Ulrich You may have finished your service as a full-time missionary, but you have a crucial mission ahead—the rest of your life! Light the World Elder David A. Bednar This Christmas season, let us share the Savior’s light and love with those around us. Departments Family Home Evening Ideas Teaching in the Savior’s Way: Preparing to Meet God Devin G. Durrant Music: Visions of Christmas Don Staheli and Jim Kasen Latter-day Saint Voices Until We Meet Again: The True Nature of God Elder Jeffrey R. Holland