The Christmas season is one of the busiest times of the year. But it is also a season of reflection and preparation for that special day when we remember the arrival of our eternal God in our own frail humanity. Let the Christ of Christmas prepare your heart for the celebration of his birth through a devotional journey reflecting on Advent and Christmas. Enjoy thirty-one thoughtful, and never-before-published Christmas devotionals from the late, beloved, best-selling author, J. Ellsworth Kalas. The inspirational selections were lovingly compiled by Dr. Kalas' son, David, and daughter, Taddy, and include additional notes and memories of their father and the holiday season. Unlikely Gifts celebrates the Savior's birth as we explore the blessings of hope, joy, love, and peace that believers can experience as they keep their eyes on Jesus.

Author Biography

J. Ellsworth Kalas (1923-2015) was the author of over 35 books, including the popular Back Side series, A Faith of Her Own: Women of the Old Testament, Strong Was Her Faith: Women of the New Testament, I Bought a House on Gratitude Street, and the Christian Believer study, and was a presenter on DISCIPLE videos. He was part of the faculty of Asbury Theological Seminary since 1993, formerly serving as president and then as senior professor of homiletics. He was a United Methodist pastor for 38 years and also served five years in evangelism with the World Methodist Council. David Kalas is pastor of First United Methodist Church in Green Bay, Wisconsin. He is the author of The Gospel According to Leviticus, When Did God Become a Christian?, Savior on the Cross, and has also contributed to several collections of sermons and preaching resources. Kalas is a graduate of the University of Virginia and Union Theological Seminary of Virginia. Taddy Kalas is a professor of French at Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois. She earned her B.A., M.A., and PhD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.