The question she asked me

Seems each Christmas season I have a defining moment when I feel what it is all about. Last Christmas it was being with a friend who was dying, who had lived a life we all strive for. This season it happened about 2 1/2 weeks ago.

For the past several weeks in Primary we had been learning about Jesus and the example He set for us while living on this earth. I have had the privilege of teaching the 7 year olds since last March. Darling group of 6 children.

So we have learned how Jesus washed the feet of his disciples to show love right before he was crucified. How He wanted to set the example for them, so they would know how to love one another. We have learned how He forgave those who crucified him, saying while on the cross, "Forgive them for they know not what they do." He set the example so we would know how to forgive one another.

So two Sundays ago one of the little girls in my class raised her hand. When I called on her she said, "Can I ask you question about Jesus?" Of course. So she asked in a very serious, and no nonsense tone, "Are we going to be crucified?" I couldn't get the answer out fast enough, "NO."

I went on to explain to her that Jesus did that for us. I explained that we will live again because he died for us. He did it for us because we cannot do it for ourselves.

I knew this. I knew all the stories I was teaching them. Yet, when she asked that question, "Are we going to be crucified?" it came to me in a way I had never quite thought of before. I thought of the little baby Jesus. His innocence. His precious mother. He came to save us.

I hope my little class thinks more this Christmas of the baby Jesus lying in a manger. He took on all the pains of the world. He came to save us.

Merry Christmas.