The True Christmas Story: From the Gospel of St. Luke

The True Christmas Story is a simple retelling of the Nativity story, intended for two- to six-year-olds, to share the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ. Taken from the Gospel of St. Luke, young readers can begin to incorporate the True Christmas Story into their lives and holiday traditions celebrating the true meaning of Christmas.

In my home growing up, every Christmas we had a tradition of reading the Christmas story. All families have different ways of celebrating Christmas, and Santa may or may not be a part of that. In my family, Santa brought one or two surprises every year, but he wasn't the focus of our holiday. I don't even remember when Santa faded away.

I do remember making birthday cakes for Jesus, and singing Him Happy Birthday on Christmas Eve. And then every year on Christmas morning, my dad built a fire in the fireplace (in sunny San Diego where it was never needed) and before presents were opened we read the Christmas story from the Gospel of Luke. We prayed as a family, thanking God for the greatest gift of all, baby Jesus. After celebrating the real reason for Christmas we could dive right into opening presents.

Imagine my delight when I discovered the art of VS Sheridan. This retelling of the Christmas story is not meant to replace opening the Bible. But, when I saw her art, the first thing that ran through my mind was squealing children everywhere running with excitement to read the true story of Christmas. My prayer is that each child would have the true Christmas story as a tradition in their celebration... and Jesus a place in their heart.

Merry Christmas!
Dana S. Chisholm