During the Christmas season, many families want to take some time to focus on Jesus. Christ-Centered Christmas books can help with this. Christmas Love Letters from God by Glenys Nellist is a unique tool to guide families in meditating on Jesus during the Advent season.
What I Love
This book actually saved a Sunday School lesson. I was assigned to teach a group of preschoolers about the prophecies of Jesus’ birth. It is so rare to find preschool resources that cover this topic.
But this one has it! It shows the prophet Isaiah sharing the good news of the Light of the World coming into the World as a baby (Jesus).
Another lesson I love from this is ‘Mary’s Song.’ I feel like this passage tends to get a little more attention in liturgical tradition. However, I grew up in a non-liturgical tradition, and it wasn’t until college that I learned about the depths and beauty of Mary’s reaction to being told she was the mother of the Messiah.
I absolutely love the simplicity in all the stories. Glenys always has a way with words. She gently draws the littles into the story in words they can understand, but also behold the mystery of God’s good gift.
In addition, each story also features a poem (Gleny is largely known for the poetry in her children’s books, and so it’s a joy this one features her rhymes) . They also feature a key verse for the week. These are short enough, littles could memorize them if that is a family’s goal.
One note I want to make about the book, because I know some families may struggle with this. Each lesson includes a letter to the child ‘written from the perspective of God.’ I personally think each family can decide for themselves if this is a good fit. It’s a bit in the lane of the ‘Jesus Calling’ book If your family enjoys ‘Jesus Calling,’ I would imagine this book would also be a good fit for your family.
Because this book is meant to be read aloud, parents can discern what is best for their family. If you feel unsure about the letters, you can always choose to sub in the word ‘God’ whenever it says ‘I’ or ‘me.’ You could also choose to read the section ahead of time and paraphrase or summarize in a way that works best for your family.
I also really love the content of the letters in this book. They are filled with reflections, helping littles wonder and the miracle of Christmas. For example: when discussing the journey to Bethlehem, the letter reads ‘Who do you think was leading the way?’ It also provides avenues for remembering and pondering the story throughout the week. I.e. ‘When you see all those twinkling lights around you, remember the best light of all is from Jesus. He is the light of the whole world.’
What My Kids Love
This book is fantastic for both a home and classroom setting. My preschool Sunday school class was so attentive listening to this story. And they really got it! Christmas is for Jesus.
Likewise, my own kids loved it! The stories and contemplation points are right at my 5 year-old’s comprehension level. The mid-week activities are also so festive (i.e. remembering Mary’s song when we sing Christmas carols).
Baby Devotions 