When I was growing up, Santa did not overshadow the birth of Jesus. I believed in Santa, but he was not the focus of our Christmas. Church and the Christmas pageant were. Our nativity set was always the first decoration to go up and the last to be taken down. As everyone says, it was a simpler time.

With this in mind, I have three books to suggest as possible gifts. I reread my favorite Christmas books every year and I am always looking for new ones. This year I found And Then They Prayed by Barry Loudermilk. It is a historical account of men who depended on God to help them. George Washington and General George Patton are two of the men. As I read, I met new historical people and marveled at their courage and strong faith. There is no doubt that their belief that God was the answer saved lives and our country.

Max Lucado is a well known author who has written many books for adults and children. For children, I suggest You are Special and for adults The Christmas Candle. I read The Christmas Candle every year. An angel visits the chandler (candle maker) every twenty five years and touches a candle. The candle is given to someone who is told to pray and their prayer will be answered. Of course the candle isn’t the reason the prayers are answered, it’s the person’s belief. The ending of the book is very special.

Both And Then They Prayed and The Christmas Candle shared the message of believing our prayers are answered. God’s timing isn’t our timing and patience is frequently needed. These books are enjoyable to read and strengthened my faith and maybe you’ll agree. Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas!