Everything Christmas from Reasons for Hope* Jesus

Why is Anna Significant in the Nativity Narrative? (Luke 2)

Anna was an amazing woman of faith and prayer. Learn more about her significant role in the dedication of Jesus at the Temple.

Why is Simeon Significant in the Nativity Narrative?

Although both Simeon and Anna (Luke 2) are often overlooked in the nativity narrative, they are very significant.

Who’s Often Forgotten in the Birth of Jesus Story?

One of my favorite narratives of the birth of Jesus is often overlooked, and there are two people who are often forgotten. Don’t miss them!

In Case You Missed It — Christmas Articles, Videos, Games

The Season of Advent (the 4 weeks before Christmas) What is Advent?HOPE Advent Candle 1 – Prophecy Gives Hope (video)LOVE Advent Candle 2 – Promise Reveals Love (video)JOY Advent Candle 3 – Jesus Is Our Joy (video)PEACE Advent Candle 4 – Pause to Find Peace...

A Christmas Morning Prayer

On Christmas morning take time to come to the cradle. Read this poem by legendary author Robert Louis Stevenson and pray this prayer with us.

Did Jesus Bring Peace On Earth?

It was Pax Romano when Jesus was born. That means there was peace under Roman rule, but that was not true peace. Did Jesus bring peace on earth?

I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day, Words by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow (video)

Written by Longfellow, this perennial favorite begins with a lament about the absence of peace in a war-torn country. But it ends with hope in remembering the faithful promise of God, “peace on earth, goodwill toward men.”

T’was the Night Before Jesus Came

This poem is adapted from the popular “Night Before Christmas” poem and presents thought-provoking words about Jesus’ return.

Was Jesus Born in a Stable, a Cave or a House?

Where was Jesus born? What does the Bible tell us? Was Jesus born in a stable? Tradition tells us one thing, but we must look to the Bible for answers.

“Immanuel” — A Poem by Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892)

Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892) was known as the Prince of Preacher, but did you know he also wrote poetry? He wrote this poem when he was 18.

Does “Xmas” Cross Jesus Out of Christmas?

Why do people shorten Christmas to Xmas? Does using Xmas dishonor Jesus? There’s more to this than you might think!

A Christmas Poem to Download and Print

A Christmas Poem — In a humble manger, a long time ago; A child was born, a Son was made low. Read the entire Christmas poem.

What are the Events of Jesus’ Birth? A Timeline and Chronology

There is a lot of information in the Bible about the events of Jesus’ birth. So what’s the timeline and chronology of events?

Download “King of Love” Daily Advent Devotions

Download the “King of Love” daily devotions that will rejoice your heart during this Advent season.

Did The Wise Men (Magi) Arrive 12 Days After Jesus’ Birth? Or Was It Much Later?

“The 12 Days of Christmas” celebrates the days from Jesus’ birth until the Wise Men arrived. But did they arrive 12 days after His birth?

It All Happened in a Moment by Max Lucado

It all happened in a moment, a most remarkable moment. As moments go, that one appeared no different than any other. But it changed the world.

Christmas Word Search Puzzle from John

The Son of God left Heaven and became a man. A fun word search puzzle for the young and young-at-heart!. Puzzle and Answer Key…

Christmas Word Search Puzzle from Luke

The birth of Jesus, as recorded by Luke, offers a fun words search puzzle for the young and young-at-heart!. Puzzle and Answer Key…

Looking for Jesus in Christmas

I went to a store “looking for Jesus in Christmas,” but didn’t find Him. Have you had this experience? What are we to do?

The Christmas Story in Poetic Verse, by Alvy E. Ford (1918-2005)

Share the Christmas story with the young and young-at-heart by sharing chapters of the Bible presented in poetic words.

Need a Quick Christmas Letter with a Significant Message?

Too busy this holiday season? Not enough time? Download this Christmas letter. It will warm hearts, stir souls, and give peace.

Christmas Advent Candle 3 – JOY: Jesus is Our Joy

Light an Advent candle to prepare your heart by renewing your hope, growing your love, rejoicing in Christ, and finding rest and peace. On the third Sunday of Advent, light the candle of JOY.

Christmas Advent Candle 2 – LOVE: Promise Reveals Love

We light an Advent candle each Sunday leading up to Christmas to prepare our hearts by renewing our hope, growing our love, rejoicing in Christ, and finding rest and peace. On the second Sunday of Advent we light the candle of Love.

Download “Come Thou Long Expected Jesus” Daily Devotions

“Come thou long expected Jesus.” Download a daily devotional book that will rejoice your heart during this Advent season.

Christmas Advent Candle 1 – HOPE: Prophecy Gives Hope

We light an Advent candle each Sunday leading up to Christmas to prepare our hearts by renewing our hope, growing our love, rejoicing in Christ, and finding rest and peace. Week one of Advent is a candle of hope.

Christmas Word Search – “In the Bleak Midwinter”

Lyrics from a beautiful Christmas song make for a fun word search puzzle for the young and young-at-heart!. Puzzle and Answer Key…

In Case You Missed It: Christmas Articles, Videos, and More!

A complete list of our Christmas articles and videos. Read and watch now.

A Baby Changes Everything

Luke 2:12 And this shall be a sign unto you; you shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.

The Most Beautiful O Holy Night, O Night Divine: it is the night of our dear Savior’s Birth

This song is incredibly moving and theologically encouraging. Pause and ponder the words. Find hope and joy at Christmas and year ’round.

Christmas Day: When Love Was Born — Light the CHRIST Candle

On Christmas Day we light the candle at the center of all the other candles. It is the CHRIST candle.

Christmas: Good Christian Men, Rejoice

Heinrich Suso, who wrote “Good Christian, Rejoice, reminds us of another man who rejoiced to see the Lord’s salvation.

What’s the Story Behind “The Gift of the Magi” by O’Henry?

The popular Christmas story, “The Gift of the Magi” written by O’ Henry, is a Christmas story with a biblical message of sacrificial love.

Christmas Advent Candle 4 – PEACE: Pause to Find Peace

We light an Advent candle each Sunday leading up to Christmas to prepare our hearts by renewing our hope, growing our love, rejoicing in Christ, and finding rest and peace. On the fourth Sunday of Advent we light the candle of PEACE.

Songs of Christmas: The Rose of Bethlehem

Read & listen to the words of a beautiful Christmas song that describe our Blessed Hope. A song of hope about the One who was born “The Rose Of Bethlehem.”

Scripture Cookies – Fun for the Whole Family!

Fun for the whole family. COOKIES! Open your Bible to determine the ingredients, then bake some cookies and enjoy the fun!

The Most Beautiful Silent Night, Holy Night

******* Jesus is the Reason this Ministry Exists We continue to reach people worldwide with the truths of God's Word and the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Your generosity is both a blessing and encouragement to us. Our mission is to glorify God by equipping,...

What DID Mary Know?

The beautiful song, “Mary, Did You Know?” prompts us to wonder, what did Mary know when she held the baby Jesus in her arms?

A Simple Timeline of the Events of Jesus’ Birth

A simple timeline of the events of Jesus’ birth.

Songs of Christmas: The First Noel

The First Noel has long been a very popular Christmas song. Learn about the history of this song and watch a short, moving video.

What Does A Candy Cane Teach About Jesus? Start a Conversation Today

Give a candy cane to someone this Christmas. Tell them the meaning of the shape, the stripes, and the sweetness of knowing Jesus.

Mary, Did You Know?

We ponder the question of what Mary knew as she held baby Jesus in her arms and looked into the eyes of the Light of the World.

I Heard The Bells On Christmas Day – Story and Song Video (lyricist: Longfellow)

Learn the circumstances under which Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote the words to the song, “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.”

Mary’s Child — from the movie, A Christmas Wish

A beautiful song from a movie that touches the heart. From the movie, “A Christmas Wish.” The movie has an inspiring message of love and hope!

The Sacrifice Began (How Many Kings)

The sacrifice God made to redeem mankind began before the cross. The sacrifice began when God gave Jesus to the world. Ask yourself, how many kings would do such a thing?

Should I Say “Happy Holidays” Instead of “Merry Christmas?”

There was a time when most Americans wished people “Merry Christmas” throughout the month of December. But today, many say “Happy Holidays”

Good Tidings for the General Public & the Elderly

The good news of Jesus’ birth was not just for the shepherds. It was also for the general public and the elderly.

What is the Prophetic Symbolism of Advent Candles?

The purpose is simple– to prepare our hearts for Christmas. The prophetic symbolism is interesting and might surprise you.

Good Tidings for All Men and Women

Good tidings started 2000 years ago when angels appeared to startled shepherds one night. These same good tidings are for all people!

Handel’s Messiah: Hallelujah Chorus by the Hallelujah Monks

Watch as these silent “monks” provide the words of the Hallelujah Chorus. Listen to the musical arrangement as the glory of the Messiah is proclaimed.

Have YOU Heard About this Baby Boy? Christmas Version of Cohen’s Hallelujah?

Listen to the beautiful music of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” — but with God-honoring lyrics that proclaim Jesus’ incarnation.

Songs of Christmas: Away in a Manger

What do we know about the origins of this popular Christmas song? Read now and then watch a beautiful rendition of the popular Christmas song.

Songs of Christmas: What Child Is This?

In this Christmas season consider a text from the book of Hebrews– a divine insight into the coming of the second Person of the Trinity.

Oh, What a Gift!

Salvation is a gift. So also was Jesus coming to earth to live and die for us. Isa 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given…What a Gift!

Good News to All People: God in a Manger

Jesus came to earth into humble circumstances. He came as God in a manger. He was born a man to be our Saviour. Good news for all People.

Songs of Christmas: Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Learn the history of the song and watch and listen to a beautiful rendition of Hark! The Herald Angels Sing.

Why Did Jesus Come to Earth? Seven Reasons for Our Hope!

When thinking about the reasons Jesus came, Christmas becomes all the more meaningful. Important realities converged in Christ’s arrival on earth.

What is the Legend of the Candy Cane?

The candy cane shares a message that’s sweeter than any candy. Watch the Legend of the Candy Cane and share its message with others.

What If You Had Been There When Jesus Was Born? Jimmy Stewart in Mr. Krueger’s Christmas

An incredibly moving video that will warm your heart and stir your soul. From Mr. Krueger’s Christmas — Consider if you had been there when Jesus was born.

Do You Get These 7 Things Right or Wrong About the Nativity Story?

Some of the common understandings about the birth of Jesus are not biblically supported. Test your knowledge by taking this short quiz.

The First Noel – Born is the King of Israel, by Carrie Underwood

A most beautiful rendition of a perennial favorite, The First Noel, by Carrie Underwood. It’s lasted down through the centuries because it tells the truth of that most important night, the night our Saviour and King was born.

How Does a Candy Cane Share the Gospel?

There’s a sweet message in a candy cane. Give a candy cane and use it to open a conversation of spiritual importance.

December 25th: The Christ Candle

On Christmas Day, we light a Christ Candle to remember Jesus’ incarnation. He came to live among us, to die for us, and to rise again and open the way to Heaven. Thank you, Jesus.

4. Advent Candle of Peace

On week four of Advent, we light a candle of Peace. Belonging to Jesus give Peace WITH God. Trusting in Him give rest and the Peace OF God.

3. Advent Candle of Joy

On week three of Advent, we light a candle of JOY. Prepare your heart with the Joy of knowing Jesus and look forward to the celebration of His birth.

2. Advent Candle of Love

On week two of Advent, we light a candle of LOVE. Prepare your heart with the Love of God for the celebration of Christmas.

1. Advent Candle of Hope

On week one of Advent we light a candle of HOPE. Prepare your heart with hope for the celebration of Christmas.

How Do We “Take” Advent and Find Rest?

It’s not easy to find rest in a restless world. Take a minute to reflect and remember and find the rest that you need.

Songs of Christmas: We Three Kings

Watch a beautiful rendition that tells the story of the Wise Men who came to worship the Christ child.

The Story of Christmas

Celebrate Christmas. Watch the story unfold and give thanks to God.

A Saviour is Born

Luke 2:11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

Songs of Christmas: O Little Town of Bethlehem

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, Though you are little among the thousands of Judah, Yet out of you shall come forth to Me The One to be Ruler in Israel, Whose goings forth are from of old, From everlasting.”

Christmas Trivia Fun

Check your knowledge of Christmas trivia. A fun activity to see how much you know about the birth of Jesus. How will you score?

Give an Invitation to HOPE this Christmas!

Help someone find HOPE this Christmas. Watch Now.

Songs of Christmas: In the Bleak Midwinter- “Give Him My Heart”

You might not know this song. It’s from long ago. Yet, it continues to be sung even in our time. The words are profoundly moving. Watch, listen, and read NOW!

What About My Friends Who Don’t Know Jesus?

Christmas is an opportunity to talk with people about the Lord. He entered into our world, took on flesh, and lived among us. He was born to die. Born to redeem us from our sins. Do your friends know Him?

Songs of Christmas: Good Christian Men Rejoice

Behind every Christmas song, there is a story. Read the story of why this song was written and how it was used to inspire hope and joy.

Songs of Christmas: Mary Did You Know?

Mary, did you know that your Baby Boy will save our sons and daughter? Read about the song & watch a beautiful rendition.

Are You Stuck in “The Middle”?

You have to watch this. Learn 8 things, from “The Middle” about sharing God’s Word. Don’t be Stuck in the Middle. A Must See!

A Hidden Message Found in the Piano’s Pause

Be AMAZED by the Hidden Message in the PAUSE on a PIANO Keyboard

Pause to Find Hope

Pause with us now, find hope, joy, delight, That came in our Saviour, that first Christmas night.

Pause to Receive God’s Promises

God’s promises are many and He is faithful to fulfill them. Pause in wonder and gratitude for all He has given us.

What are the Prophecies of Christmas?

The Prophecies of the birth of Jesus are many. Pause to rediscover the wonder and prophetic hope fulfilled on Christmas Day.

Pause to See Jesus

Will you pause to see the Baby in the manger during this hectic holiday season? Take a minute and watch this short video.

Pause to Hear God’s Plan

Pause to reflect on the magnitude of God’s sacrifice. It didn’t start at the cross. It was predestined from before the foundation of the world. Watch the short video.

Where are the genealogies of Jesus in Mark and John?

There are clear genealogies of Jesus in Matthew and Luke, but what about Mark and John? This will surprise you…

A Boastful Christmas Letter

You’ve probably don’t get Christmas letters like this one. Read it and be surprised by what it says and what it doesn’t say.

Why are There Two Different Genealogies for Jesus?

There are clearly 2 different genealogies in Matthew and Luke. How can this be explained? What should we know when skeptics claim the Bible is in error?

What’s in the Pause?

This is a lesson you don’t want to miss! With Christmas fast approaching we take a break from our regular Bible teachings to PA-- USE and stand in wonder and awe of our great God and His sacrificial gift of sending Jesus into our world. It’s so easy to get caught up...

Peace Delivers Hope to a World in Sin

As we get closer and closer to the day in which we celebrate the birth of Jesus, take a minute to remember what you have been given. When Jesus saved us He gave us peace with God.Peace with God vs. the Peace of GodPeace with God is an objective peace. It...

The Most Important Lesson for YOU in the Nativity Story?

Three more misconceptions about nativity scenes, pageants & Christmas narratives AND the most important lesson for YOU in the Nativity story.

Promise Ignites Hope

By Shari Abbott, Reasons for Hope* Jesus As we enter into week three of Advent, the festive and the busy activities of the season increase. And, sadly, they begin to capture our thoughts, our time and even our hearts. Take a minute to pause and think on the truly...

Errors in the Nativity Story? Is Jesus’ birthplace wrong?

We’re looking at common misconceptions found in nativity narratives and most nativity scenes. Last week gave biblical answers for three Misconceptions About Mary and Joseph’s Journey to Bethlehem and their arrival in the city. This week...

Preparation Produces Hope: Get Prepared!

How can you keep Christmas Christ-centered? Find Him every day. 200 glimpses of Jesus! Read the list and find out if you “see” Him.

Misconceptions About Christmas: the Journey to Bethlehem

There are many misconceptions about Christmas surrounding the birth of Jesus. What does the Bible tell about the journey to Bethlehem for Joseph and Mary?

Alone at Christmas? Feeling lonely?

Are you alone at Christmas. Or feeling lonely? What can you do?

How can you have a white Christmas without snow?

By Shari Abbott, Reasons for Hope* Jesus White is such a beautiful color. Or is it? Is it really a color, or is it the purity of not being tainted by a color. With paints, if you add just a smidgen of another color to white it takes on the hue of the color added....