“Contents,” Liahona, Dec. 2012, 1–3 Liahona, December 2012 Messages 4 First Presidency Message: Rediscovering the Christmas Spirit By President Thomas S. Monson 7 Visiting Teaching Message: Visiting Teaching, a Work of Salvation Feature Articles 10 The Tradition of Light and Testimony By Elder L. Tom Perry The core of the gospel of Jesus Christ is individuals, families, and homes, which the Church functions to support. 16 Leaving Adversity Behind By Elder David S. Baxter We can leave adversity behind and, with the Lord’s help, emerge from darkness. 20 Prophets at Christmastime By Laura F. Willes Stories of latter-day prophets exemplify the spirit of Christmas. 24 Sacred Transformations By Aaron L. West One hill transformed. One family transformed. 32 The Safety and Peace of Keeping the Commandments By Bishop Gary E. Stevenson A formula embodied in the gospel of Jesus Christ reveals the pathway to happiness. Departments 8 What We Believe The Gospel of Jesus Christ Was Restored through the Prophet Joseph Smith 31 Serving in the Church Feeling His Love through Service By Mishelle Wasden 36 Latter-day Saint Voices 74 News of the Church 79 Family Home Evening Ideas 80 Until We Meet Again Sunbeams, Public Affairs, and Gospel Joy By Elder Quentin L. Cook Young Adults 40 They Spoke to Us Christmas within You By Elder Jeffrey R. Holland 43 Christmas Ornaments, Christlike Friends By Mary N. Cook The Christmas of 1984 was a turning point in my life. 44 The Christmas Handkerchief By Scott M. Mooy Why did my mother give my sister a handkerchief each year? Youth 28 Focusing on a Forever Family By Mindy Raye Friedman How the example of two teenagers helped their parents. 46 Questions and Answers How do I answer my friends’ questions about the temple when I don’t know much about it myself? 48 How to Give Gifts to Christ By President Henry B. Eyring Three gifts we can give the Savior to bring Him joy. 49 Poster Oh, Come, Let Us Adore Him 50 For the Strength of Youth What about Dating? By Larry M. Gibson 52 Because of Families By Hikari Loftus Enaw, Erin, and Adina talk about why their families are important to them. 54 Gifts You Can’t Wrap By Elyse Alexandria Holmes Here are four unforgettable gift ideas—no wrapping required. 56 Line upon Line 1 Corinthians 15:20–22 57 From the Mission Field Feeding Those Who Hunger By Dallin C. Wilcox 58 Growing Together as Deacons These two deacons are different, but they have at least one thing in common. Children 59 Special Witness How Can I Be a Witness of Jesus Christ? By Elder D. Todd Christofferson 60 My Gift to Jesus By Rachel Lynn Bauer How could I show love to Jesus? I found my answer at home. 62 Our Page 63 Bright Idea 64 The Light of the World By Kimberly Reid How could everyone looking at the nativity scene seem happy if Jesus couldn’t stop bad things from happening? 66 Bringing Primary Home Jesus Christ Is the Son of God 68 A Christmas Prayer Answered By Peggy Schonken Peggy’s family had no food for Christmas. 70 For Young Children 81 Book of Mormon Scripture Figures More Online