The True Meaning of Christmas: The Birth of Jesus and the Origins of the Season

"What does the Bible really say about the birth of Jesus? How did the celebration of Jesus' birth become associated with things like Santa Claus and Christmas Trees? In The True Meaning of Christmas: The Birth of Jesus and the Origins of the Season, biblical scholar Michael Patrick Barber offers an inspiring look at the Bible's accounts of Jesus' birth and the development of celebration of Christmas. Along the way, he answers numerous questions, including: How is the Christmas story related to ancient Jewish expectations? Why is Jesus said to be laid in a "manger"? What are Magi? What was the Christmas star? How did December 25th become the date of Christmas? How did Saint Nicholas become "Santa Claus"? Some of the answers may surprise you, but, as Barber explains, only by understanding the message at the heart of Christmas can we fully enter into the joy it promises"--… (more)