Book excerpt: The story of Christmas began long before Mary gave birth to our Savior, Jesus, in Bethlehem. The story of Christmas—the story of God’s saving plan—began at the creation of the world. Inspired by the Jesse Tree tradition, author Kendra Tierney’s O Come, Emmanuel roots families in the rich symbols of the Old Testament that point to the coming of Jesus Christ. For each day of December leading to Christmas, you’ll find a reading from Sacred Scripture, family-friendly reflections for the day, and a short prayer. Experience the unfolding of God’s plan from Creation to the Patriarchs to the Prophets and beyond with O Come, Emmanuel.