The heart behind The Promise of Bethlehem
Reading has always been an important part of our family life. My wife and I began reading to our son when he was just an infant, and we have continued this tradition every night since.
Each evening, we all gather in our son's room. One night my wife will take the lead, reading from the Bible; the next night, it's my turn. After we finish reading together, whoever led the Bible reading stays behind to continue reading more with him—just the two of them and whatever he finds enjoyable. That one-on-one time is so precious and valuable for strengthening the bond between parent and child. It's in those quiet, simple moments that trust, love, and deep relationships are formed—both with each other and with God. Afterward, he prays, and time permitting, he reads even more on his own.
This simple, consistent practice has not only helped our son grow academically and socially, but most importantly, it has nurtured his spiritual growth and personal relationship with God.
In 2019 we started a special tradition. Instead of the usual chocolate or toy Advent calendars, we bought 25 gently used Christmas-themed books from local thrift stores and garage sales. We wrapped each one and the "Book Elf" would place a new book under the tree each night leading up to Christmas. It was a beautiful, joy-filled way to countdown to Christmas—but it also made us reflect on how we could focus even more deeply on the true meaning of Advent: preparing our hearts for the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
With prayer and vision, I was inspired to create The Promise of Bethlehem—a 25-chapter story meant to be read one chapter each night from December 1st through December 25th. It’s designed not just to be a nightly tradition, but a meaningful journey to grow closer to God as a family.
This chapter book is just the beginning. My ultimate dream is to create 25 individual full-color storybooks—one for each day of Advent—so families everywhere can experience the same Christmas joy and spiritual preparation that has blessed our home. The cost to bring that dream to life is monumental, but with God, we know all things are possible.
The Promise of Bethlehem is more than just a book. It’s a steppingstone toward a movement to bring Christ back into Christmas, one story, one prayer, and one family at a time.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Together, let’s prepare our hearts for His coming.
