The Purpose of Christmas

Hailed by The Economist as the "the most influential pastor in America," and by Time as one of the 100 most influential people in the world, the bestselling author of The Purpose Driven Life expounds on the profound origins of Christmas, describing it as an opportune time to welcome peace into our lives.

In his powerful yet compassionate voice, Pastor Rick Warren sounds the clarion call to "remember the reason for the season," taking readers back in time to the most wonderful story of all -- the birth of the baby Jesus. When he was just a small boy, young Rick asked his parents if they could celebrate Christmas with a birthday party for Jesus -- and the tradition began that the Warrens have upheld for over fifty years. Now through stirring imagery and compelling personal insights, The Purpose of Christmas honors the significance and promise of this cherished holiday.

Pastor Warren encourages readers to identify and confront what drains peace from their lives. Warren explains that the way to respond to these peace-robbers is to learn how to surrender to God''s will and not feel defeated or discouraged when life does not go as planned. True peace of mind is found by having an unshakeable faith in God -- knowing that his empowering Spirit will guide his children through life''s challenges.

Beautifully written, The Purpose of Christmas will stir readers to honor the true significance of Christmas and to nurture God''s gifts of love and peace in this world.

Evangelical pastor Richard Duane "Rick" Warren was born in San Jose, California on January 28, 1954 and grew up in Ukiah, California. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from California Baptist University, a Master of Divinity degree in 1979 from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and his Doctor of Ministry degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. Warren worked at the Texas Ranch for Christ before founding the megachurch Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, California in 1980. He has written or co-written several Christian books, including the bestselling guide to church ministry and evangelism, The Purpose Driven Church, and The Purpose Driven Life. Warren has lectured as a theologian at many noted universities and seminaries and was chosen in 2008 by President-elect Obama to give the invocation at his inauguration ceremony.