Bible Storybook

Enjoy quality quiet time with stories from the Bible. Keeping true to God's Holy Word, these stories are written with little ones in mind so they can better understand Bible truths. Have fun seeing which names or words will pop up pictures. Click on the right name or word, and its picture will appear in a window on top of the story. To return to the story, click the [X] box in the right-hard corner of the picture's window.

The Very First Christmas

By ELLEN WELLER

The first Christmas happened a long time ago, and it was the best Christmas of all for everyone -- even you.

A baby boy was born to Mary, and His name was Jesus. You've heard of Jesus and Christmas, haven't you? This is why Christmas is celebrated.

Jesus was born in the town of Bethlehem. Mary and her husband, Joseph, had to go to their hometown to pay taxes. Do you know the name of your hometown? It is the town or city where you were born.

Well, Joseph had to return to his hometown of Bethlehem. He had to take Mary with him even though she was almost ready to have her baby. Did I tell you that Joseph was not baby Jesus' father? Jesus is God's Son. That makes Jesus the greatest baby of all time.

When Mary and Joseph arrived after their hard journey, they couldn't find a place to stay. To make matters worse, it was time for Mary to have her baby, so they found a stable where animals were kept. There baby Jesus was born.

You might be wondering: What does this have to do with Christmas? Well, let's see, okay?

Do you know that Christmas is about giving? Giving presents to the people you love. God gave His very own Son to us so someday we can get into heaven.

That same night, God made a bright light glow in the sky. Suddenly the sky was filled with angels. They were all singing, "Glory to God in the highest!" Do you sing Christmas songs?

Some time later, some wisemen found Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus. They bowed down before Jesus and gave Him three gifts. Mary accepted the gifts for her baby and wondered how these men had known of Jesus' birth. She did not know at that time, but Jesus would need the gifts He received that night.

Do you ever wonder about the gifts that you get at Christmas? You wish for something, and -- come Christmas morning -- there under the tree are your wishes come true.

Jesus, God's gift to you, has made wishes come true for millions of people who want to go to heaven. He can make your wish come true too.

Have a very merry Christmas, and remember to thank Jesus for the best present of all!