I chose “Mary’s Lullaby” and “In a Manger” because they focus on Christ as a baby. As a mother, it brings me to tears to think of this tiny newborn boy — so small and helpless — being born to take on the entire world and carry the sins, pains, and sorrows of every person who would ever live. I can’t imagine knowing that your child has been given a calling like that.

When I hold my babies, all I want to do is protect them from anything that could hurt or frighten them. I would take away every burden if I could. And yet Mary knew her Son would one day would one day carry every pain and sin of the world, she could not take that from Him. All she could do was raise Him, love Him, hold Him close, and trust in Heavenly Father’s plan.

These songs help me picture Mary holding the Savior in her arms — a tiny baby who was already the Redeemer of the world. They remind me how miraculous His birth truly was. I’m so grateful a Savior was born with salvation for me, for my children, and for all of us. Even as a little boy, He held the whole world in His hands.

I love Jesus Christ. I’m grateful every day that I get to hold my own children, love them, teach them, and help them grow closer to Him — the One who made all of this possible. I sometimes wish I could take away every pain and trial they will face, but I’m comforted knowing that the Savior already has. He loves us so much!