What do you think?
The Max Lucado Christmas Collection: An Angel's Story / the Christmas Candle / the Christmas Child
Collects three Christmas stories by the author, where an angel recalls the first Christmas, a candlemaker is visited by a Christmas angel, and a journalist is lost in a deserted town and finds the true meaning of Christmas.
342 pages, Hardcover
First published August 27, 2002
About the author
Max Lucado
1,248 books5,646 followersWith more than 150 million products in print and several NYT bestsellers, Max Lucado is America's bestselling inspirational author. He serves the Oak Hills Church in San Antonio, Texas, where he lives with his wife, Denalyn, and their mischievous mutt, Andy. His most recent book published in August 2024 and is titled What Happens Next.
https://www.facebook.com/maxlucado/
https://twitter.com/maxlucado
https://www.instagram.com/maxlucado/
https://www.accessmore.com/pd/maxluca...
https://www.facebook.com/maxlucado/
https://twitter.com/maxlucado
https://www.instagram.com/maxlucado/
https://www.accessmore.com/pd/maxluca...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
July 12, 2026
Trigger Warnings:
* Christian themes
* Spiritual warfare
* Adoption
* Family conflict
* Grief and loss
* Illness
The Max Lucado Christmas Collection by Max Lucado is a collection of three Christmas stories—An Angel’s Story, The Christmas Candle, and The Christmas Child—set in biblical times, a small English village, and modern-day Texas. Each story offers a different perspective on the meaning of Christmas while focusing on faith, hope, forgiveness, and God’s love. I especially enjoyed how each novella had its own unique feel while still fitting together as a cohesive Christmas collection. The stories are heartfelt without being overly sentimental, and they left me with that warm, reflective feeling that makes for a perfect holiday read. If you’re looking for a faith-based Christmas book that reminds you of the true meaning of the season, this is one I’d recommend.
* Christian themes
* Spiritual warfare
* Adoption
* Family conflict
* Grief and loss
* Illness
The Max Lucado Christmas Collection by Max Lucado is a collection of three Christmas stories—An Angel’s Story, The Christmas Candle, and The Christmas Child—set in biblical times, a small English village, and modern-day Texas. Each story offers a different perspective on the meaning of Christmas while focusing on faith, hope, forgiveness, and God’s love. I especially enjoyed how each novella had its own unique feel while still fitting together as a cohesive Christmas collection. The stories are heartfelt without being overly sentimental, and they left me with that warm, reflective feeling that makes for a perfect holiday read. If you’re looking for a faith-based Christmas book that reminds you of the true meaning of the season, this is one I’d recommend.
December 23, 2016
This collection contains three stories. "An Angel's Story" is about the angel Gabriel, who must fight the forces of evil to deliver the light and essence of Jesus Christ to Mary. It's an interesting perspective on the ways Satan tries to deceive and battle. I enjoyed how the angels use love and praise and trust in God to fight off any temptations. "The Christmas Candle" is about the miracle of the candles. Every twenty-five years an angel appears to touch a candle on Christmas Eve. Whoever receives that candle also receives a Christmas miracle. One year mistakes happen, but God delivers miracles just the same. "The Christmas Child" is about a man trying to find himself on Christmas Eve. He has fought with his wife and is now in a little town in Texas, trying to discover his origins (since he was adopted). His story is intertwined with many others and creates a heartwarming tale of love and forgiveness.
January 14, 2020
This was a series of short stories from the mind of Max Lucado, a Christian author I respect. All three stories could easily have been written by different authors. Each had its own pace and style. Each was exceptional.
The first tale (An Angel’s Story) is a re-imagining of the birth of Jesus from the perspective of the angels sent to protect him.
The second (A Christmas Candle) postulates on the impact a true miracle can have on a whole community-pastor to farmer, sinners all. It was well executed, and I enjoyed how the town unfolded a chapter at a time. The ending was predictable but still heart-warming.
The final story (The Christmas Child) was a freer form story. It follows a man, newly separated from his wife, working on Christmas across the country. By chance, he comes in contact with a dark part of his past, and by following a desperate possibility, finds the redemption he didn’t even know he needed. I don’t often cry when I read, but this story got me in my feels. Its unresolved ending left me to ponder.
The first tale (An Angel’s Story) is a re-imagining of the birth of Jesus from the perspective of the angels sent to protect him.
The second (A Christmas Candle) postulates on the impact a true miracle can have on a whole community-pastor to farmer, sinners all. It was well executed, and I enjoyed how the town unfolded a chapter at a time. The ending was predictable but still heart-warming.
The final story (The Christmas Child) was a freer form story. It follows a man, newly separated from his wife, working on Christmas across the country. By chance, he comes in contact with a dark part of his past, and by following a desperate possibility, finds the redemption he didn’t even know he needed. I don’t often cry when I read, but this story got me in my feels. Its unresolved ending left me to ponder.
December 27, 2020
Short book. Wonderful stories pointing towards the true meaning of Christmas.
November 23, 2015
One of our new Christmas books to read during the season this year. Each year we put away our Christmas books and then mom and dad wrap them and put them under the tree before Christmas. The kids have so much fun unwrapping and reading the books (most old ones they remember and a few new ones). It's a wonderful time anticipating the birth of our Savior on Christmas morn.
Wonderful book! Max Lucado is such a great writer! We loved each story in this book.
Wonderful book! Max Lucado is such a great writer! We loved each story in this book.
December 19, 2022
I bought this book mainly for The Christmas Candle ( I had just seen the movie and wanted to read the story that inspired it), but I enjoyed all three tales. There are some odd formatting issues in the tale about Mary and Joseph. Some of the text is oversized. I'm not sure if that was done to add extra emphasis but I found it distracting. That quibble aside, all three stories are heartwarming and cover quite a range in time frame.
December 14, 2021
My favorite story from the 3 was, “The Christmas Candle.” Even if it was a bit predictable.
Favorite quote (from “An Angel’s Story)
Satan: “ The bethel of Joseph by his brothers— I did that. Moses banished to the desert after killing the Egyptian— I did that. David watching Bathsheba bathe— that was me. You must admit, my work has been crafty.”
Jesus: “Crafty? Perhaps. But effective. No. I know what you will do before you even do it. I used the betrayal of Joseph to deliver My people from famine. Your banishment of Moses became his wilderness training. And yes, David did commit adultery with Bathsheba— but he repented of his son! And thousands have been inspired by his example and found what he found— unending grade. Your deceptions have only served as platforms for My mercy.”
Favorite quote (from “An Angel’s Story)
Satan: “ The bethel of Joseph by his brothers— I did that. Moses banished to the desert after killing the Egyptian— I did that. David watching Bathsheba bathe— that was me. You must admit, my work has been crafty.”
Jesus: “Crafty? Perhaps. But effective. No. I know what you will do before you even do it. I used the betrayal of Joseph to deliver My people from famine. Your banishment of Moses became his wilderness training. And yes, David did commit adultery with Bathsheba— but he repented of his son! And thousands have been inspired by his example and found what he found— unending grade. Your deceptions have only served as platforms for My mercy.”
December 29, 2021
I’m pretty sure I’ve read at least some of these stories before. Perfect Christmas reading. I think the first one was my favorite, simply because it fueled my imagination for what things might be like in the heavenly realms.
October 30, 2012
Read during the Advent season. I'm a softy for Christmas short stories and Hallmark Christmas movies. Both touching and both have happy endings.
December 16, 2021
Not worth my time really. Only read it for book club. Max is just not my guy.
December 5, 2022
I love any book that Max Lucado writes!
December 9, 2022
A sweet collection of Christmas stories with a surprising story about the supernatural events leading up to Christ’s birth and the effects thereof.
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
*I listened to the audiobook on Scribd.*
December 13, 2025
yes!! read all things that stir your soul for the new born king and the coming king.
December 13, 2021
Overall rating 3.5 stars
An angels story: 1 star, this short story was just too religious for me. Around Christmas I like to read holiday books, but I’m not religious so this was was just a bit too much for me. I also didn’t get the weird bold and caps in the writing.
The Christmas candle: 5 stars and my whole reason for wanting the book. I saw the movie loved it and wanted to read what started it all. I just loved it! Not too religious or anything like that.
The Christmas child: 5 stars this story was not at all what I was expecting and that’s what made me love it so much, the only thing I wish was that this story was longer.
An angels story: 1 star, this short story was just too religious for me. Around Christmas I like to read holiday books, but I’m not religious so this was was just a bit too much for me. I also didn’t get the weird bold and caps in the writing.
The Christmas candle: 5 stars and my whole reason for wanting the book. I saw the movie loved it and wanted to read what started it all. I just loved it! Not too religious or anything like that.
The Christmas child: 5 stars this story was not at all what I was expecting and that’s what made me love it so much, the only thing I wish was that this story was longer.
January 6, 2014
Not my favorite, and actually kind of disappointed as I've always liked Lucado's writing before.
This book is a collection of three short stories or novellas. I chose it because I recently saw the second, "The Christmas Candle," in the movie theater not long after Thanksgiving. I can't believed I liked the movie MUCH better than the book.
The first story in the collection was at least interesting in its premise and gave me pause to think.
The last was the best and would be fun if developed into a longer piece of work, especially as the ending seemed rushed and trite.
This book is a collection of three short stories or novellas. I chose it because I recently saw the second, "The Christmas Candle," in the movie theater not long after Thanksgiving. I can't believed I liked the movie MUCH better than the book.
The first story in the collection was at least interesting in its premise and gave me pause to think.
The last was the best and would be fun if developed into a longer piece of work, especially as the ending seemed rushed and trite.
December 19, 2023
The Christmas Child story was my favorite of the three. It was less predictable, and it dealt with more suffering. It’s one I will still think on.
I also liked the Christmas candle (the first one I listened to). It ended up being better than expected, and it reminded me to trust the Lord that he listens to all our prayers.
Finally, I had mixed feelings about the Christmas angel story. It was interesting, though, to consider the spiritual warfare happening at the coming of Christ.
I also liked the Christmas candle (the first one I listened to). It ended up being better than expected, and it reminded me to trust the Lord that he listens to all our prayers.
Finally, I had mixed feelings about the Christmas angel story. It was interesting, though, to consider the spiritual warfare happening at the coming of Christ.
December 22, 2013
I don't like short stories. There is just not enough thought devoted to developing the characters, plot, resolution, or really anything at all. And there rarely seems to really be a climax. The messages are ok, but still underdeveloped and standard. I think I will stick with full-sized novels from now on.
December 12, 2010
I did not like the first story, An Angel's Story. I always like to read Christmas stories this time of year and the Christmas Candle and the Christmas Child were satisfying seasonal stories. They were a simple easy read.
December 24, 2010
Great short stories for the Christmas holiday season. I enjoyed the fictional additions used with scripture in the first story and the second two were touching and heart warming. They are all quick, easy, relaxing reads.
January 1, 2018
Anything Max Lucado writes is great reading.
When Mr. Lucado writes, you can feel his faith in his words, and you want it for yourself. I'm a Christian, but his books help me in ways I didn't believe possible.
When Mr. Lucado writes, you can feel his faith in his words, and you want it for yourself. I'm a Christian, but his books help me in ways I didn't believe possible.
January 5, 2018
Interesting
A collection of 3 short stories about Christmas miracles. Unusual and very original from 3 different time periods each one points points to the deeper spiritual meaning of Christ a baby who came to save the world.
A collection of 3 short stories about Christmas miracles. Unusual and very original from 3 different time periods each one points points to the deeper spiritual meaning of Christ a baby who came to save the world.
July 15, 2019
Three short stories that share the faith and hope of Christmas.
An Angel's story - Tells of Christ's birth from the angels viewpoint - specifically Gabriel.
The Christmas Candle - God continues to work miracles when we pray, ask and trust.
The Christmas Child - Reunited family
An Angel's story - Tells of Christ's birth from the angels viewpoint - specifically Gabriel.
The Christmas Candle - God continues to work miracles when we pray, ask and trust.
The Christmas Child - Reunited family
January 10, 2021
A blessing to anyone at any time especially Christmas.
Max has a rare gift when it comes to storytelling. He leaves you entertained, encouraged and above all blessed. I had read this book before and I will read it again next Christmas, the Lord willing.
Max has a rare gift when it comes to storytelling. He leaves you entertained, encouraged and above all blessed. I had read this book before and I will read it again next Christmas, the Lord willing.
January 14, 2021
Wonderful
As always Max Lucado has done a marvelous job painting a picture with words. All three stories ar magnificent and I found myself tearing up to the point of not being able to see the words.
As always Max Lucado has done a marvelous job painting a picture with words. All three stories ar magnificent and I found myself tearing up to the point of not being able to see the words.
December 31, 2021
I love “An Angel’s Story”. I’ve read it multiple times. The reminder of the unseen battles around us where God fights for us and for his Will to be done always brings me to a humble place. It’s more than a warm, fuzzy story. Lucado paints a fierce picture of the spiritual realm.
January 10, 2022
Max Lucado's Christmas collection is one of my go-to Christmas reads each year. Some years I'll read the three stories contained within this book, other years I'll just read one of the stories. No matter which story you opt for, you'll be brought closer to the wonder of Christmas.
December 16, 2023
I've always liked the Christmas Candle. I think I've read the Christmas Child before, and it's alright. I'm not sure about the third story. There's something about it that bothers me, but it may have been the inflection in the narrator's voice.
January 26, 2009
I enjoyed the book. It brought me some interesting thinking. I especially liked the Christmas Child.
June 1, 2017
Heart-warming, these stories inspire hope, belief in miracles and the powers unseen.
December 16, 2018
Surprising stories of the mystery of Christmas
Three short stories to fill you with see and wonder at God 's work in our lives. Very entertaining. Very Chrismasy.
Three short stories to fill you with see and wonder at God 's work in our lives. Very entertaining. Very Chrismasy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews