James' rejection spurred Paul to hike the Roman highways of the Mediterranean world to proclaim the truth of Damascus, over and over again, if not for James' approval, then for his own. Had he not been healed at Damascus? And then there was the stinging thorn in his flesh that kept the guilty wound on his soul festering.

Journey to the first century world of the Roman empire. Here you will encounter emperors and slaves, Jews and Greeks, and men and women lifted from the pages of the New Testament as they stumble forward following the death of Jesus, unwitting midwives to the birth of Christianity. Follow Paul and James as they contend for the soul of the newborn Jesus movement; their struggle is the story of Christian origins.

Spiritual beings populate the stories of Scripture. Angels singing. Demons infecting. Heavenly hosts fighting . . . Ignore the armies of God and Satan and you ignore the heart of Scripture. Ever since the snake tempted Eve in Eden, we've known: there is more to this world than meets the eye.

In this classic Christmas novella, best-selling author Max Lucado imagines the spiritual conflict that surrounded the coming of Christ. Surely there was much. If Satan could pre-empt Christ in the cradle, there'd be no Christ on the cross.

Journey back in time to the very throne of God…and witness firsthand the glory, the wonder, and the battle that took place on the very first Christmas.

In addition to the author’s thoughts, readers will encounter advice from leaders in business, Christian ministry, the arts, and education. Each chapter’s “Points to Ponder” encourage readers to go deeper in their thoughts and discussions on the subject of calling and career. Readers are reminded that none of us is here by accident, and there are no accidental occupations. Everyone must pursue the talents and gifts God has afforded them.

With original insights from Christian leaders like… Josh McDowell, Steve Arterburn, Max Lucado, Tammy Trent, Mark Price, and others

In the twinkling of an eye, their lives changed forever. Husbands, wives, children, all lost in what was first called "the disappearance." With millions of Christians called home, the Rapture has irrevocably torn the fabric of their lives. They wander, rootless and searching, in the wake of events nearly too powerful to comprehend. Offering hope, Azul Dante and his Prodigal Project remain a beacon in the uncertainty.

Available only in Christian Fiction 6 & 8.

Other books in this series:

• Book 1: Genesis

Majesty in the midst of the Mundane. He looks like anything but a king. His face is prunish red. His cry, though strong and healthy, is still the helpless and piercing cry of a baby. He is absolutely dependent upon Mary for his well being.

Holiness in the filth of sheep manure and sweat. Divinity entering the world on the floor of a stable, through the womb of a teenager, and in the presence of a mere carpenter. God had come near!

Travel back in time and relive Christ the Son of God becoming man. In this stunning work, Max Lucado views the Savior who walked among us through a distinctly human lens. He speaks plainly to those of us who prefer to keep Jesus otherworldly, distant, and predictable: "Don't do it. For heaven's sake, don't.  Let Him into the mire and muck of our world. For only if we let him in can he pull us out."

Through vivid word pictures, come with Max as he brings to life the most important event in history . . . when God Came Near.