Because of Bethlehem: Love Is Born, Hope Is Here

I purchased a Kindle copy of Because of Bethlehem: Every Day a Christmas, Every Heart a Manger by Max Lucado in order to participate in an online Bible study with Proverbs 31 Ministries. In addition to the book, I was able to take advantage of the supplemental materials included in the study. This book was a quick read, making it a benefit during one of the more busier times of the year. I found the stories easy to digest, often completing a chapters while waiting in line at the grocery store or on my lunch break at work. As a Christian, I found the themes fairly elementary. Lucado added a lot of personal anecdotes, which made him more relatable to the reader. But if I am honest, I really didn't have any big aha! moments with this book. It was a fun read for the Christmas season that reminded me of things I already knew. Proverbs 31 Ministries motto goes something like: Your life may be crazy, but your Bible study doesn't have to be. I think this study was a good example of that. It's as light read about an important topic that reminds the reader of the reason for the season. Recommendation: I think this book would be a good selection for someone young in their Christian walk or for someone who doesn't have much time to delve deeply into a Bible study. Until next time ... Read on! Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or am gifted one, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

I have read Because of Bethlehem: Love is Born, Hope Is Here, by Max Lucado as an Advent study. I have found it to be a very inspirational book. It strengthened my faith by reminding me of the great truth of Immanuel, God with us. It could be read at any time and inspire and strength a Christian in remembering the great work of God on our behalf. I just smile when I think of the chapter God Has a Face, (“and the Word became Flesh and made His dwelling among us.”) The book is an easy read. Lucado is so down to earth and humorous as he speaks to our heart. I recommend this book to a believer who wants to continue to grow as a Christian and also to a seeker who wants to come to know God. It has certainly been a part of making my Christmas celebration a true celebration. The book includes an Advent devotional guide. It also includes a fiction writing, "An Angel’s Story.” The fiction, just like many of Lucado’s illustrations in the book really caused me to think. I do recommend this book.

This book was pre-bought and downloaded when my step-daughter was in the last 12 days of her earthly life. As she was under hospice care, I read to her. She loved Christmas and this was a joy to read to her during this time. Because of Bethlehem reinforced His love for us and reminded us that she was going to a better place.

You know the one, in late December? Except I start seeing it’s impending arrival even before the ghouls and goblins have even been put on clearance in the store. I’m tired of blowing good money on bad elephant gifts, and attending obligatory office parties so my job is secure, grazing at holiday buffets for food I don’t really want but excess is part of the season along with credit card bills and drama. I *do* know the reason for the season and I’m grateful for Max’s book to give me a new and fresh understanding of it. An Angel’s Story, a bonus at the end of the book, was worth the price all on its own. I am tired of the Holiday season but so appreciative of Christmas and the wee little Lamb born in a manger.

I loved this book, as I love all Max Lucado's books. His style is very appealing, and easy to read and understand. He explains clearly why Christ came. "Each one of us has a sin nature. God entered the world to take it away. God came to save us from ourselves. The angel said: He save His people from their sins. Matt 1.20-21]" "What started in a Bethlehem cradle culminated on a Jerusalem cross. Jesus not only did a work for us, He did a work IN us," " Chaos cannot keep Christ from His world. God uses the struggle to accomplish His will. God holds it all together. He will hold it together for you, too." These brief quotes may give you enough of an insight to know this is excellent teaching indeed.

This book was so touching,and the ending about the angels!! tears came to my eyes reading this book,oh he can be funny too. I like where his wife and the sales girl were trying to show him the Christmas gift he was supposed to buy for his wife. But he doesn't let you forget through that one night,God loves us. This is a excellent book to read during the Christmas season.

Max articulates a strong purpose and message of the incarnation. The Devotional is a distraction to the message and I felt was not up to Max's normal standard. The third story, which is about a message of the incarnation from heaven's view, was grounded in The Story but also shows his creative imagination. Well done!

I read most of this book after Christmas. But to me this is a book you can read anytime of year. The beauty of the Savior’s birth should be celebrated year round. Max Lucado’s writing style is inspiring, easy to read and practical. Beautiful book. Highly recommend!

This book is the perfect addition for Advent devotions. You will grow closer to the grace that God showers us with as we celebrate the birth of our Savior. This is a book I will make part of my Advent celebration from now on. Max Lucado is a true Christmas blessing!!

Because of Bethlehem, Max enhances and stretches our Christian faith so that we grow in Christ. Wonderful, wonderful a new Christmas Story for all of us. But my socks blew off with his little post script of another perspective as we read the seed of a Christmas Story found in the Book of Revelation. WOW. The Devil was also lurking trying to stop the the Christmas story. This story could have had a different ending.

I purchased a Kindle copy of Because of Bethlehem: Every Day a Christmas, Every Heart a Manger by Max Lucado in order to participate in an online Bible study with Proverbs 31 Ministries. In addition to the book, I was able to take advantage of the supplemental materials included in the study. This book was a quick read, making it a benefit during one of the more busier times of the year. I found the stories easy to digest, often completing a chapters while waiting in line at the grocery store or on my lunch break at work. As a Christian, I found the themes fairly elementary. Lucado added a lot of personal anecdotes, which made him more relatable to the reader. But if I am honest, I really didn't have any big aha! moments with this book. It was a fun read for the Christmas season that reminded me of things I already knew. Proverbs 31 Ministries motto goes something like: Your life may be crazy, but your Bible study doesn't have to be. I think this study was a good example of that. It's as light read about an important topic that reminds the reader of the reason for the season. Recommendation: I think this book would be a good selection for someone young in their Christian walk or for someone who doesn't have much time to delve deeply into a Bible study. Until next time ... Read on! Regardless of whether I purchase a book, borrow a book, or am gifted one, my ultimate goal is to be honest, fair, and constructive. I hope you've found this review helpful.

I have read Because of Bethlehem: Love is Born, Hope Is Here, by Max Lucado as an Advent study. I have found it to be a very inspirational book. It strengthened my faith by reminding me of the great truth of Immanuel, God with us. It could be read at any time and inspire and strength a Christian in remembering the great work of God on our behalf. I just smile when I think of the chapter God Has a Face, (“and the Word became Flesh and made His dwelling among us.”) The book is an easy read. Lucado is so down to earth and humorous as he speaks to our heart. I recommend this book to a believer who wants to continue to grow as a Christian and also to a seeker who wants to come to know God. It has certainly been a part of making my Christmas celebration a true celebration. The book includes an Advent devotional guide. It also includes a fiction writing, "An Angel’s Story.” The fiction, just like many of Lucado’s illustrations in the book really caused me to think. I do recommend this book.

This book was pre-bought and downloaded when my step-daughter was in the last 12 days of her earthly life. As she was under hospice care, I read to her. She loved Christmas and this was a joy to read to her during this time. Because of Bethlehem reinforced His love for us and reminded us that she was going to a better place.

You know the one, in late December? Except I start seeing it’s impending arrival even before the ghouls and goblins have even been put on clearance in the store. I’m tired of blowing good money on bad elephant gifts, and attending obligatory office parties so my job is secure, grazing at holiday buffets for food I don’t really want but excess is part of the season along with credit card bills and drama. I *do* know the reason for the season and I’m grateful for Max’s book to give me a new and fresh understanding of it. An Angel’s Story, a bonus at the end of the book, was worth the price all on its own. I am tired of the Holiday season but so appreciative of Christmas and the wee little Lamb born in a manger.

I loved this book, as I love all Max Lucado's books. His style is very appealing, and easy to read and understand. He explains clearly why Christ came. "Each one of us has a sin nature. God entered the world to take it away. God came to save us from ourselves. The angel said: He save His people from their sins. Matt 1.20-21]" "What started in a Bethlehem cradle culminated on a Jerusalem cross. Jesus not only did a work for us, He did a work IN us," " Chaos cannot keep Christ from His world. God uses the struggle to accomplish His will. God holds it all together. He will hold it together for you, too." These brief quotes may give you enough of an insight to know this is excellent teaching indeed.

This book was so touching,and the ending about the angels!! tears came to my eyes reading this book,oh he can be funny too. I like where his wife and the sales girl were trying to show him the Christmas gift he was supposed to buy for his wife. But he doesn't let you forget through that one night,God loves us. This is a excellent book to read during the Christmas season.

Max articulates a strong purpose and message of the incarnation. The Devotional is a distraction to the message and I felt was not up to Max's normal standard. The third story, which is about a message of the incarnation from heaven's view, was grounded in The Story but also shows his creative imagination. Well done!

I read most of this book after Christmas. But to me this is a book you can read anytime of year. The beauty of the Savior’s birth should be celebrated year round. Max Lucado’s writing style is inspiring, easy to read and practical. Beautiful book. Highly recommend!

This book is the perfect addition for Advent devotions. You will grow closer to the grace that God showers us with as we celebrate the birth of our Savior. This is a book I will make part of my Advent celebration from now on. Max Lucado is a true Christmas blessing!!

Because of Bethlehem, Max enhances and stretches our Christian faith so that we grow in Christ. Wonderful, wonderful a new Christmas Story for all of us. But my socks blew off with his little post script of another perspective as we read the seed of a Christmas Story found in the Book of Revelation. WOW. The Devil was also lurking trying to stop the the Christmas story. This story could have had a different ending.

Max Lucado did it again. Because of Bethlehem is a wonderful book full of Scriptural truths, explained through easy to understand stories and messages. The angel insert is an amazing extra! Don’t skip it. The advent lessons are the perfect companion to the chapters. I strongly recommend this book.

Refreshing review of the Christmas story. Max Lucado brings a new perspective to the birth of Jesus, which promoted good discussion in our Sunday morning study group.

Max Lucado has written another excellent book. The holiday season can be stressful for some, but the book helps to keep things in perspective. Christ is the true meaning of Christmas.

Love Max Lucado's books. This book brings the Christmas story alive through scripture and personal stories, he always makes me look at things in a different way. Highly recommend.

I believe I reviewed this book earlier, but I don’t see it. This was an insightful book which leads to a deeper understanding of the birth of our Saviour and the purpose it gives us.

This book brings to life the Christmas story, but it is also encouraging for all year. It gives hope for all year.

I really enjoyed reading this book. It really helped me to focus on the true meaning of Christmas. Max Lucado is an awesome writer. Highly recommend this book!!

I was about 3 chapters into this book when I bought another copy for a Christmas gift. It will be a great addition to my annual books to read during Advent.

Great to read this book for Advent and or preparation for Christmas. Bible verses, hymns, and stories for inspiration.

Great value. Friends in my Bible study group have the physical book but I have all the extras in mine. Good Advent study

Great Christmas Gift for the adults!!!

I enjoyed this book, which our bible study group read as we approached Christmas. Max Lucado writes in an interesting, down-to-earth way that makes confusing concepts easier to understand and brings out ideas and answers to questions you'd never even thought to ask, but make perfect sense. You end up with a clearer and deeper understanding of Christmas.

I loved this advent study. Our small group did this at church before thanksgiving and the hustle and bustle of the season. Truly setting your heart on the right path for the craziness that can often derail us in the holiday season. keeping Christ, His love and sacrifice first. i look forward to more Max Lucado studies.

Another excellent book and just in time for the Christmas season. It will encourage your faith and give you blessings with every chapter.

I bought this for a bible study but it is such a wonderful book to read during the holidays.

Back to Bethlehem is where Max takes us to look at Christmas in a new and unique way. All our external hope is because of Bethlehem. Come take a trip there through this book. You'll be glad you did, no matter when you read the book.

Have read max Lucado books fir many years, he has a God given talent to bring the words on the page to life. Love his work and I am blessed by the closeness I find my heart to my heavenly farther. I have been to Israel and knelt at the manger star in Bethlehem! This book is such a blessing to me.

What can I say that would help you love Jesus more than this book will — probably nothing, other than to read this book and learn how much God truly loves you...

Christmas has always been my favorite holiday, mostly because of the magic of the season. Not Santa Claus (although he is certainly a fun part now that I have kids!) but remembering that Jesus is the reason for the season. I saw this book last year but it was well into the Christmas season and I wanted to read it at the beginning of December. I remembered it a few weeks ago and decided to buy it so I could read it right away when December arrived! "The Christmas promise is this: we have a Savior, and his name is Jesus." Because of Bethlehem is a wonderful book to read during the season of Advent to contemplate what happened over 2,000 years ago in a stable in Bethlehem. The book doesn't only talk about Christmas but everything in it ties into Christmas so it creates a big picture of how everything ties together. I purchased the Kindle edition and 53% of the book is the story. Following the story are four weeks of Advent devotions with lots of thought-provoking questions. At the end is a novella entitled An Angel's Story, told from the viewpoint of Gabriel, the angel who told Mary she was going to be the mother of Christ. I'm so happy I remembered this book this year because I read it at the ideal time (for me). I highlighted a lot of passages so I could go back and look at them. Having read this already allows me to contemplate what I read over the next few weeks as we continue through Advent. What happened in Bethlehem wasn't a small, insignificant event. It was a really big deal and it still is! I love Max Lucado's writing style and how he uses some humor to make some points. If you are looking for a wonderful book to read during the Advent season, I highly recommend this one!

Max Lucado does it again!!! He brings such a practical application of Christmas to our spiritual lives. I read this in a Bible Study group and was truly inspired though out the holiday season. I look forward to reading He Chose the Nails for the Easter season. Max Lucado's writing is an inspiration and soundly biblical in its application.

Loved reading this — had quite a few laughs especially in chapter 3 and a few segments after. The bonus content was awesome!! Wish it had continued BUT we know that story and those that don’t can find it in HIS book

Like the entire book. Love the part of going to Bethlehem with the angels. Love every story by Max. Putting the Bible in common message

Very good

Loved this book so much! It was a new way to look at the birth of Jesus that brought hope to my heart and smiles to my face. I loved it so much that I bought one as a gift for a friend and recommended to several others. After I read it through, my husband and I read it for worship in the evenings. I recommend everyone read this book.

Excellent book by Max Lucado. I read it during the Christmas holidays and I really enjoyed it.

This is a typical Max Lucado book with some profound and interesting outlooks on the birth of Jesus. A short read but worthwhile and enjoyable.

See above. It is my prayer that many hearts will be touched by this book. I look forward to reading many more of Max's books.

Macs book is great. Gives a whole new look on and about Christmas. Very good. Enjoyed it a lot. Although I love all his books.

A fresh walk through Advent with Lucado's humor and candor. Because of Bethlehem helped me to feel again the wonder of the Christmas story

Did this book with my bible study group and I couldn't put it down. I wanted to keep reading it. Really loved this book and helped me be closer to Jesus this Christmas. Max Lucado books are one of my favorites to read.

This book was outstanding. Used it in our women's Bible class.

Love this book and it’s author

This was a very moving picture of the Christmas story. I can't imagine NOT having read this book! You won't be sorry for your time reading it.

I sat down with my iPad (kindle app) and couldn't put the book down. What a joy. Thanks for bringing the Christmas spirit to me.

One of the best books ever written! Max Lucado is funny and has some deep insight about Jesus and His history . I will read again and again . Beautiful!

Once again Max has made the simple deeply complex but in a good way. He makes you think deeper,and feel deeper and understand deeper.

Another wonderful book by Mr. Lucado. I look forward to each one he writes and will reread them often. Thanks.

A very interesting book about God's gift to us from out of Bethlehem, well-written as usual by this author. Good reading about the heart of Christmas!

Great book to read at Christmas. To bring the meaning of Christmas to life. Great word pictures to bring the Christmas story into clearer view.

Present to family

Good Christmas inspiration reading

Good.

Great. As always, Max helps me to see the incredible love God has for me and all His children.

Excellent book and study guide! Was a very nice way to prepare your heart and reflect on the reason for the season.

Max Luca do is a talented, gifted author. I've been a fan for years. Recently my son bought me a Kindle. I've greatly enjoyed adding some of Pastor Lucas's books to my library.

This book truly lives up to max Lucado's other books. Really enjoyed it!

There is great Peace in reading this It a beautiful path for Advent. Thank you

Great take on Christmas. Love this book.

A great book for group discussion.

Excellent! A must read! Everything by Max is just wonderful......very gifted writer!!

Well written, enjoyable story of the Savior's birth. Would recommend it.

Love this book ! Really good couldn't put down till done drew me in closer to God!

Max has such a down to earth sense of humor. He takes the heavy things of God and makes them completely understandable. This book made me laugh, made me cry, inspired me to praise and made me consider my life. Mostly Max loves Jesus and that shines through as bright as a Christmas candle!

Another superbly written book by Max. Very insightful and thought provoking.

Book arrived quickly and in excellent condition

Excellent book. I really liked the advent section added as a bonus at the end of the book.

This is an amazing book I loved it Tremendous Christmas insite I plan to give this as gifts next year.

I love Max Lucado and am never disappointed whit anything he writes.

Another Great book by Max Lucado!!!!!

Good read, nothing new and too short.

Anything by Max Lucado is fantastic!

Great read!

Very informative. Loved it!

Outstanding book. Max Lucado did it again.

Magnificent. One of my best books.

A perfect reminder of the importance of Christmas.

It was a wonderful way to prepare for Christmas!

Great book.

I enjoyed Max's insight into the birth story of Jesus. I recommend it for anyone interested in the true meaning of Christmas.

I laughed and cried and most importantly received the very important message of how Jesus' birth a long time ago relates to us today.

Great Bible study!

Great

It was very well presented and gave some new things to consider. Our Small Group enjoyed the DVD and his presentations.

Excellent

Excellent. Excellent Easy to understand, simple language as all writings about Christ should be. A must read for all believers.

Loved it.

The writing was easy and clear.

Always enjoy reading Luccado.

Wonderful as all your books are. I so enjoy retreading them, keep it up Max you are an inspiration

Loved it. I knew would be exceptional because Lucado loves Christmas and tells the Bethlehem story like no other.

Disappointed in this book - shallow and colloquial.

One of Max Lucado's best.

Great product, quick delivery. Very satisfied!

Just what I needed for the holiday season and everyday of the year!!

As always Max Lucado speaks eloquently about the truth of Jesus Christ.

Great book!

Awesome book! Would highly recommend this for teens to adults.

Excellent read anytime of year

Loved it.....

Love Max Lucado and have read almost all his books and have never been disappointed. He has a very unique style of writing some of the best Christian books I've read.

I would give it 100 stars if I could. I did a book review for a church group on this book just this morning. Had many people asking where they can get their copy and some for friends and family. Max Lucado's books NEVER fail to move hearts. I laughed and cried my way through this one. His style is unbeatable. This book proves that no matter how messed up we are, we will be changed....Because of Bethlehem. Grab a copy before they are all gone. A great read, and a wonderful gift for someone you really care about.

This is a great reminder that we can never start too early to prepare for Christmas. Excellent Advent devotional included.

Repetitive rhetoric - not what I have come to expect from Lucado

You really can't give a Max Lucado book less then 5 stars. Every book of his has such an awesome message.

Great book Max Lucado never dissapoints

This is a wonderful book for the Christmas season. It really makes you think about the Christmas season and God's amazing love for each one of us.