Everyone has his or her own list of great Christmas stories. Type “Favorite Christmas Stories” into Google and each selection will be different. One contributor to Forbes Magazine (a guy, of course) topped his “Top 10” with the Bruce Willis movie Die Hard. There’s no right or wrong answer. Most anthologies are going to include something that’s truly out in left field. But some stories are undeniable classics—books and movies that capture the spirit of the season with a singular poignancy that can’t miss when it comes to helping families get the mood right.
We all need a little help when it comes to refocusing the family in the right direction.We all need a little help when it comes to refocusing the family in the right direction. Our world is full of confusing messages, conflicting values, and troubling images. Every day can be a new challenge.
We picked the following stories because they help set the stage. Family, redemption, love, laughter, selfless giving, miracles, generosity, and faith to name a few. Guide your family toward the kind of Christmas celebration you know you need with these 5 Christmas stories worth retelling tonight.
1. A Christmas Carol.
We recommend actually reading the Charles Dickens original out loud. Ebenezer Scrooge has seen a lot of mileage over the years, but nothing reveals the transformation of his cold heart better than the story as told in the 1843 novel.
2. The Gift of the Magi.
O. Henry’s short story captures the magic of love and the power of personal sacrifice through the winsome tale of two young people who want nothing more, or less, than to give the other their heart’s desire.
3. The Selfish Giant.
Another short story, this time by Oscar Wilde. The Selfish Giant takes the Christmas story all the way to its climax through Good Friday and Easter. According to Wilde, the story is designed to be read aloud.
4. Miracle on 34th Street.
The original, 1947. No other Christmas movie quite captures the power of belief and the important distinction between facts and truth. As you watch this movie with your family, ask one another what the story tells you about the following: faith, prejudice, generosity, proof, and love.
5. Home Alone.
Home Alone (1990) may be a comedy, but it points unerringly to two important truths we must never forget. The first, “You’re always welcome at church” was spoken by the hero, Kevin, to his lonely neighbor, Marley. The second is the thread that holds the story together, “Nothing is more important than family.”
Looking for more Christmas stories? Click here for 10.
Huddle up and ask each one to share their number one Christmas movie or story. Ask them what makes the story special.