Wise Men Came from the East and Found Christ

The Christmas story includes the narrative that wise men came from the East, and followed the star which led them to the young Christ child. Coupled with that is the saying, "Wise Men Still Seek Him", and one of our favorite scriptures in Jacob 6:12, "O be wise, what can I say more?"

It has been almost 22 months since we left our home in the West and traveled to serve in what is referred to as the Far East in the little country of Cambodia. With about 95% of the population are Buddhist, and Christians make up about 2%. Only about 5% of the Christians in Cambodia are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Even with these small numbers we have blessed to see those who seek to live the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Our friend Sameth told us that about 11 years ago after he had finished his mission he wanted to buy a Christmas tree to help remember Christ during the Christmas season. There were very few people who celebrated Christmas at that time. There were not so many Western stores, and it seemed there were no trees to be found. Then he happened to find a tree for sale in a little book store, and the price was over $100. Wages in Cambodia even now make that a difficult price, yet it was important enough that he pulled together enough to buy that tree. He still uses that tree now. Trees and decorations are much more affordable with small trees starting at about $10, and as we drive throughout the city there are many shops with Christmas trees and decorations.

As we spend Christmas in this little country in the Far East we rejoice to see those who are choosing to seek for Christ. We have watched as they have listened to the message of the Gospel, then taken those principles into their lives and started on a path to follow Christ. As they have continued down the path, faithfully learning and growing in testimony, their light has continued to grow brighter, and more people are finding that light in their lives.