If you find yourself getting distracted by all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, try reading some Christ-centered picture books to put things back into perspective. I bring you these favorites with a grateful heart for the message they share about the true meaning of Christmas.

“The Wonderful Gifts of Winter” written by Dandi Daley Mackall and illustrated by Katherine Blackmore (Copyright 2014, B&H Publishing Group) presents the many blessings of the season using rhyming text, Bible verses, and beautiful illustrations to celebrate the birth of Christ while giving thanks to God for winter.

“Mary, Did You Know? The Story of God’s Great Plan” written by Mark Lowry and illustrated by Phil Boatwright (Copyright 1998, Waterbrook Press) uses lyrics from the popular song, Scripture references, and stunning illustrations to describe the birth, life, and miracles of Christ through the eyes of Mary as she raised God’s son.

“The First Christmas: A Christmas Pop-Up” (Copyright 1995, Landoll, Inc.) is a favorite from my collection of vintage books.  Each page turn produces a pop-up illustration, using simple language to retell the story of Christ’s birth and the reason for the celebration of Christmas. This one will have the little ones saying, “read it again.”