The season of Christmas is a time of reflection and joy; however, it can also be a time of angst and sorrow for many people. Celebrating the birth of Jesus often becomes secondary to the commercialism of the holiday. Sometimes we are robbed of our joy during this season–maybe we aren’t financially able to give the gifts we would like, maybe this is the first Christmas since the passing of a loved one, maybe you are unable to spend the holiday with your family. Know that the celebration of Christmas is not a competition. Jesus was born into the world to save us from our sins, and that alone is a reason to celebrate. In spite of the difficulties, the worries, the hustle and bustle, look for the joy in the real reason of Christmas. Some of the below books may help in getting back on track and focusing on the birth of Christ this holiday season.


Jesus Calling for Christmas
By: Sarah Young

Savor the season with this beautiful Christmas edition, a perfect gift that includes 50 seasonal devotion selections along with Scripture, quotes and festive and breathtaking color photography. This book is a treasure your family will enjoy for years to come. From the beginning of Advent to Christmas Day and beyond, enjoy the presence of the One who understands you completely and loves you perfectly.


The 25 Days of Christmas: A Family Devotional to Help You Celebrate Jesus
By: James Merritt

Amidst multiple trips to the mall, endless gift-wrapping and constant holiday baking, it’s easy to lose sight of the real reason for the season–the birth of Jesus. Preparing you and your family to experience a more meaningful Christmas, this beautifully illustrated Advent devotional offers a December’s worth of read-aloud stories, inspiring Scripture verses and festive activities.


On This Holy Night: The Heart of Christmas
By: Max Lucado, Rick Warren, David Jeremiah, John Maxwell

Featuring today’s well-loved Christian writers and speakers, On This Holy Night shares reflections for the Christmas season that will encourage and inspire you. The six chapters are written by: Max Lucado, Rick Warren, David Jeremiah, John Maxwell, Jack Hayford and Bill Hybels.


The Carols of Christmas: A Celebration of the Surprising Stories Behind Your Favorite Holiday Songs
By: Andrew Gant

This book is a joyous account of the history behind your favorite Christmas carols. Brimming with anecdotes, expert knowledge, lyrics, and music for 20 songs, this fascinating book delves into the tales of Away in a Manger, O Holy Night, Angels from the Realms of Glory and more.

Previous articleMore Than 100 Area Pastors Join Vice President Mike Pence At The White House
Next articleBloomingdale Football Hosts First Playoff Game; Defeats Palmetto 21-14
Kelly Wise Valdes
Kelly Wise Valdes has been writing for the Osprey Observer since 2008. She graduated in 1989 from Florida Southern College with a B.S. in Communications and enjoys writing and traveling. She currently resides in northern Hillsborough County with her husband, David. When not traveling and writing, Kelly and her husband enjoy spending time with their five grown children (as well as their grandchildren) that still keep them very busy.