A Christmas Prayer Tradition (2026) Movie Script
1
Yeah.
I understand.
Yeah, I'm really excited too.
Remind me, when do we go live for presale?
I'm just on my way right now to
drop off the physical copies to
the bookstore.
Yeah.
I can do that.
Yeah. Chat soon.
Hey. Excuse me.
Sorry.
Hi.
It's okay.
Sorry. I wasn't paying attention.
Neither was I.
How'd the call with your publisher go?
Good. They want me to come
in and go over the marketing
strategy for the book launch.
I'm so proud of you.
I love you.
I love you, too.
Shall we?
We shall.
How's it coming over here?
Good.
About halfway done.
Thank you for letting me
host your book launch.
It's already done a wonder
for our holiday sales
numbers, which we needed.
Are you kidding me?
I wouldn't have wanted
to do it anywhere else.
This story is special, Natalie.
There's a lot of heart in it.
And the message is, well,
we can all learn a little
something from Adeline.
I'm glad you're part of it.
I just hope everyone
feels the same way you do.
I know they will.
I just, I don't want to disappoint anyone.
That's not possible, dear.
Thanks, Mrs. Jenkins.
I mean every word.
Now, I do want a cup of tea.
I was just about to put on a kettle.
Sounds good.
Please be seated.
God bless you.
And just a reminder,
sign ups are open for the choir for
our candlelight Christmas Eve service.
We would love to have you all participate.
Okay. Officially accepting guesses.
How many days until this baby
makes a dramatic entrance?
I think I'm going with tonight.
You said that last night.
You look amazing, though.
How are you feeling?
Good.
Even if I haven't seen
my feet since September.
Hannah, you're absolutely glowing.
Thanks. It's pregnancy sweat.
It's quite warm in here.
Really? How's the firm?
Good. Solid.
I just keep thinking it
should feel bigger by now.
It will, you're just getting started.
Yeah, but I couldn't do
it without you, Katie.
I'm just happy to help.
Hey, Tom.
Thanks again for introducing
me to that publisher.
Of course.
I'm so glad it worked out.
We all can't wait for the book
launch, Natalie.
I've actually already told my
mom she's got to get at least
two copies.
You're signing up for the choir?
Hey, I don't know if I actually mentioned.
I host the church's men's Bible study.
It's nothing fancy.
Just a couple of us getting together.
Yeah.
Yeah,
I have a couple of other
dads from the church, too.
It's a really good group.
Thanks.
Men's Bible study?
Yeah. I don't know.
Why not?
I think it's a good idea.
Dad. Natalie,
can we pick up dinner at Lino's?
Absolutely, I am starving.
Come on, let's go.
Dear Heavenly Father,
we are grateful for the blessing of
this food and for the
hands that prepared it.
As we get closer to this
Christmas season, help us to
remember why we celebrate.
Help us to see the people who need
love, and help us to be
generous with our time,
and brave with our kindness.
Thank you for the gift of your
Son, Jesus Christ.
In his name we pray.
Amen.
Amen.
- Amen.
Are you ever going to tell me
what you're doing with that thing?
You've been carrying it
around with you for months.
You have been a little secretive.
Well, because I didn't
want to miss anything.
Miss anything?
I've been trying to keep track of people.
Like in a spy kind of way.
In a prayer kind of way.
Last Christmas you helped
answer prayers and this year I
want to try to.
You made people feel really
loved and I want to do that.
Show people that they're not alone.
Someone's paying attention
like Jesus would.
That's really nice of you,
sweetie, but it's a lot to take on.
I know, but that doesn't
mean I don't want to try.
I've been keeping notes all
year for kids in my class,
people at church, and in our neighborhood.
You mind if I take a look?
No.
Dad, can I be excused?
I need to finish putting the
candy canes on the Christmas
cards for my class.
Okay, but be quick.
You still have your dinner to finish.
I think your heart's in the right place.
Yeah.
I'm equal parts proud and worried.
I don't want her to be disappointed.
Maybe we help her.
Yeah?
Yeah. I mean, think about it.
We have both been so busy,
between your work and my book
launch, we've barely had any
time to do anything fun.
And I think it would
mean the world to her.
You know, you did say that if
I ever found myself answering
prayers again,
that you would love to help.
I did say that, didn't I?
Yeah.
Yeah. You know what?
I think it's a great idea.
I love you.
I love you, too.
Come on, kiddo, eat up.
I'm gonna be late.
Can I take a look at
that list one more time?
Sure. Just not the last page.
What's on the last page?
My own prayer.
Why can't I see?
Because.
Because why?
Please, dad.
Okay, fine.
Not the last page.
There's a lot of stuff in here, kiddo.
I know.
I've been praying about it, and
I know God will show me the way.
I can't promise we'll be able
to answer all these prayers, but.
I can definitely try.
Really? You want to help me?
Yeah. If you want me to.
I do.
Why didn't you tell me about this sooner?
I would have loved to help you do this.
I just...
I didn't want to bother you.
I know you're busy with work,
and Natalie's got so much going
on with her book coming out.
I'm sorry if we felt too busy lately.
I want to change that.
Just so I don't forget anything.
Okay, one more bite,
and then it's time for school.
And don't forget,
pops is picking you up today.
He's going to take you
to see The Nutcracker.
He promised me we'd get
popcorn and chocolate.
Hey, your coat.
Caroline.
Let's talk marketing for Adeline.
So as you can see here,
we're going for buzzy.
We're really excited about the launch.
Early numbers are strong.
Retailers are on board,
and we think this can be
something really special.
Right. Yes.
Um, well, first of all,
this is this is so beautiful.
But I think we're missing something.
Snowflakes. I know I have
Olivia in design working on it.
No, no, I mean, um,
Jesus,
this is a story about an
angel, about answering prayers.
Yeah, well, that was intentional.
What?
We love the story.
We love the message.
That's why we signed it.
But marketing is about first impressions.
Who feels invited to pick it up?
Jesus is the message.
Absolutely. In the book, 100%.
But for marketing,
we're thinking broader, more universal.
We want to target a broader demographic.
And we think that if we lead
with a faith language right out
of the gate, then we limit
the audience before they even
open the cover.
But this story,
this exists because of my faith.
I admire your conviction
and I share it, I do.
I agree.
Jesus is the reason for the season.
Yes.
- Yes.
But.
But?
Look, think of it this way.
If we don't include Jesus in
the marketing, we have a chance
to reach readers who wouldn't
typically pick up a faith based book.
People who don't have Jesus on
their radar, people who might
not be searching for him but
may encounter him through the story.
Now, it is a good story
with a great message.
It's a big opportunity to
meet people where they are.
But is that deceitful?
Natalie, no.
Goodness. No.
It's marketing.
Marketing...
Right. I just, I don't want to
lose the heart of why I wrote
this and what this book means.
We don't want to lose that either.
I want you to think of
this as the doorway,
Natalie. Not the house.
Okay?
Now, about the book launch party.
Yes, we're doing it at Mrs.
Jenkins bookshop.
Right. Which it's a,
it's a very lovely bookshop.
But the team and I,
we were thinking bigger.
Bigger.
Bigger. Now,
this here is a list of all the large
commercial retailers who are
excited to host the event.
I just want you to take a look at it.
Think it over.
We can go bigger than
a community bookstore.
I want you to dream big on this.
This has massive potential.
I'll think about it.
Great.
Great.
But don't take too long.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Sorry, I'm a bit slow today.
Hey! You're pregnant.
You are allowed to be slow.
So, how did things with your publisher go?
It was good.
Exciting..
Also complicated.
Complicated how?
They want to market the
book in a more secular way.
Like?
Like less Jesus, more winter wonder.
They think it'll reach more people.
I mean,
I sort of get what they're saying.
So do I.
But I don't know where the line
is between being accessible and
missing the point of this whole book.
What does Wes think?
I don't know, we haven't had
a chance to chat about it yet.
You okay?
I think so.
Probably just a Braxton Hicks contraction.
I know I joke about this baby
coming any day now, but just
the closer I get,
the more I feel wildly unprepared.
What do you mean?
The nursery's half done at best.
The house is a mess.
I keep thinking that I have time.
Then I don't.
Christmas, and the outreach services.
I...
I blinked and suddenly
I'm nine months pregnant.
I don't think anyone ever feels ready.
Yeah.
I just, I keep telling myself
that I'll catch up, right?
That once Christmas is
over, I can breathe again.
Christmas does have a funny way
of showing up, whether we're
ready or not.
I guess that applies for babies, too.
I haven't even installed the car seat.
Okay, well, now that is
something we need to take care of.
Yeah.
I can help you.
I'll help you.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Let's keep this going.
- Slowly.
Yeah. Give me a second.
Hank. Hey, why don't you come in?
It's cold out there.
Thanks, boss.
Don't mind if I do.
Here. Got something for you.
Thank you.
How's your day going so far?
Hey. What you got there?
Nothing.
Just bills and stuff.
Um, you're back early.
Yeah. Things wrapped up
quicker than expected.
Now I just got to fold these
pamphlets for the Christmas Eve service.
Hi, Hank.
Afternoon, Natalie.
How are you?
Your daughter and her sons
arrive here any day now, right?
Later this week.
It's the first time I've ever
hosted them for Christmas.
But I keep thinking.
What if it's not magical enough?
Hank, it will be.
You know, actually,
I was planning on making some
gingerbread cookies today.
How about I bring some by with
some frosting and sprinkles and
you guys can decorate them?
Really? That wouldn't
be any trouble at all?
No, not at all.
Well, then, thank you, I'd love that.
Sounds like a pretty
great start to Christmas.
Sure does.
Have a good afternoon, you two.
Thanks, Hank.
See ya.
What was that look?
What look?
The look you just gave me.
There is no look.
Mhm.
Assembly line rules.
I fold, you stack.
You don't want me to fold?
I think I'm good.
You got it.
Men's Bible study is tonight, right?
Mhm.
You gonna go?
I don't know.
I mean, my dad is taking
Caroline to The Nutcracker tonight.
And I've got some book
work I've got to get done.
So...
So, it would make sense for you to
go, if you want to.
I just don't feel very
confident with my faith and all.
Well, that's the point of the group,
to grow in a community together.
Okay.
I'll text Stephen later
and tell him I'm coming.
I'm proud of you.
Thanks for being so
understanding with me while
I figure all this out.
Hey,
there's nothing to figure out.
This is just like any other relationship.
The more time you spend with the Lord,
the deeper your relationship will get.
I,
Told Caroline we'd help her
with the prayer list if you're
still up for it.
Of course.
First one.
Let's see.
A wreath for the coffee shop.
Well, what if I picked up
Caroline from school tomorrow
and we can find the perfect one?
She'd absolutely love that.
Okay. Before I forget,
my book goes on pre-sale this week.
And I know this is silly, but
could you come over and
watch it go live with me?
Of course, I wouldn't miss it.
Thanks.
Hey, Wes, you made it.
Come on in.
We're just about to get started.
Everyone, this is Wes.
Wes, welcome.
Thank you.
Shall we?
Yeah.
- Great.
You can take a seat there, if you like.
Thank you.
All right, before we get started,
Stephen. Any day now, right?
We're officially in the
baby can show up at any minute now, zone.
And I'm pretending to be
calm, but I'm not.
That's fatherhood, man.
You're doing great.
And panicking simultaneously.
Yeah, it gets easier.
The anticipation is the hardest part.
Well, all the prayers are welcome.
God chose you to be the
father of this child.
That wasn't a mistake.
Thanks, guys.
Should we pray for Stephen
and Hannah and the baby?
Lord, thank you for this
new life on the way.
For strength,
peace and protection over Hannah as she
gives birth, and wisdom and
strength for Stephen as he
steps into this new role.
I found this great recipe where
you put sprinkles in the batter.
That sounds yummy.
What's up buttercup?
Nothing.
It's the marketing for Adelaine the Angel.
They want to take the
faith completely out of it.
What do you mean?
Well.
The team says that if the
marketing doesn't include
Jesus, it's more likely
to reach a wider audience.
And I know that they think
they're helping reaching more
people, but I don't want
Jesus to be an afterthought.
Isn't that kind of the whole point?
And I just feel like that's
kind of getting lost at
Christmas time.
And I don't want that
to happen with my book.
Is there anything you can do about it?
I don't think so.
I was looking over my contract
earlier and they have full
control over publicity and marketing.
It's a wonder they're even
letting me have my book launch
at Mrs. Jenkins bookstore.
I don't know.
I'm just kind of feeling burnt out.
Sounds like you need
some time to be still.
I think I'm going to try and
answer some more prayers this year.
You know, get back to
the heart of this season.
Really?
Yeah.
- How?
Caroline. Caroline has a list.
Turns out she's been keeping
track of people's needs all year.
That's,
that's the most beautiful
way to look at the world.
Well, tell me, what's on the list.
Well, let's see. Wes texted me it.
You want to answer one of those tonight?
Isn't it late?
Well, the craft store is open till eight.
If we hurry, we can make it
and get some supplies for.
Caroline's teacher.
I love it.
I'll drive.
Here we go.
Hey, guys.
How's the Nutcracker?
Dad, you wouldn't believe it.
The dancing mice and the sword fight.
It was so cool.
I want to hear more about it
after you put on your pajamas
and brush your teeth.
Thanks again for taking her.
So, how was Bible study?
It was good.
Yeah. Um.
I'm still new at all this faith
church.
I know we went when I was a kid, but
after taking such an extended hiatus, I.
I'm still finding my way back.
I keep wondering if I'm doing it wrong.
That feeling is natural,
and there's no right or wrong way
to have a relationship with the Lord.
All he asks of us is to show up.
Which you're doing.
Yeah.
It just feels like the other
guys have it more figured out
than I do.
It's a season,
and it's great that you're building a
foundation to grow with these
men so that they can walk you
through all the seasons.
Pops, remember when the sugar
plum fairies were dancing and
then it started snowing?
That was so cool.
That was my favorite part.
I want to do ballet lessons, too. Got it?
Those don't look like your pajamas.
She told me she wants to go again.
Miss Dawson, are these new art supplies?
They are.
This basket was on my desk this morning.
Who are they from?
I don't know,
but it came with this note.
Miss Dawson,
thank you for all that you do.
You are so loved and
we are praying for you.
Merry Christmas.
Natalie. Natalie.
It happened.
What happened?
Miss Dawson, she got new art supplies.
Did you have anything to do with it?
It was mostly my Grandy.
Now come on, we've got a
wreath and some bows to find.
And I know just the place.
Let's go.
Hey, Tom.
Hey. I'm gonna be a bit late.
Gotta drop something off.
Give me a call when you're done, okay.
Bye.
Miss Dawson.
Can I help you?
I found these in my car.
I thought they could go to a good home.
Thank you.
My kids love colored pencils.
They are so creative at that
age, aren't they?
I was actually a teacher here.
Retired a few years ago.
Taught fourth grade just down the hall.
It's my first year.
Any advice?
I could write a book.
Some things I learned the hard way.
Um. I find that kids work
better when they have some responsibility.
Assign two supply managers each
week, they will guard
these art supplies and anything
else you assign to them, like treasure.
Anything else?
If a lesson goes sideways,
stop and start reading out loud.
Any chapter book will do that.
Resets the classroom.
These are gold.
Another favorite was to have a
small stash of emergency winds,
crossword puzzles, drawing
prompts, silent reading cards
on the days when nothing goes as planned.
Fourth graders smell panic.
Thank you.
I really want to do a good job for them.
They only get one childhood.
I want to get it right.
The face you're worrying
about getting it right,
means you already are.
The rest just takes time.
These days might be long,
but one day you'll look back and be
so proud of the work you did.
It's lovely to meet you, Miss Dawson.
I didn't catch your name.
I'm Katie.
Well, Katie, it was lovely to meet you.
Thank you for all the advice.
You're probably really busy,
but if you have some time on
your hands, the school's hiring
some substitute teachers.
I would love to put in a good word for you
with Principal Gregson.
Not that you need it.
Well, I will give it some thought.
Have a Merry Christmas.
You too.
She always did the bows extra fancy.
She sure did.
I hope we can find something like it here.
No.
Natalie.
Do you think it's hard loving
someone for a really long time?
Sometimes.
But I also think it can be the
easiest thing, if it's the right person.
Like you and my dad?
I hope so.
Me too.
You make him really happy.
You make me really happy.
You both make me very happy.
So I think we are all very blessed.
Do you think God cares about
little things like bows on cafes?
I think God cares about people.
And sometimes it's the little
things that make people feel loved.
My favorite Christmas thing
is candlelight service.
I love how pretty the church looks.
Only lit by candle.
That's mine too.
I just I love how quiet it gets.
You know, it feels
safe.
That's it.
That's exactly it.
High five.
Do you think we should
add a few more bows?
Right here.
Natalie Sands?
Hi.
Hi, I'm Bridget Gardner.
I write for the Bedford Falls Gazette.
I've been hearing a lot about your
book, Adeline the Angel.
You've got quite a grassroots buzz going.
I'd love to talk to you about it.
Find out your inspiration behind
it, where it came from,
your story, your version.
Thank you.
I, um,
I'll have to think about it.
Of course.
No pressure.
Give me a call anytime.
I'll be around.
Come on, let's go hang this up.
Well, if it isn't Wes Thornton.
Hey, Peter. How you doing?
Good, good.
What brings you in?
Um.
I want to propose.
Congratulations.
I've been looking for the
right ring for a while now, but
everything feels almost right.
But not quite perfect.
I don't want to get this wrong.
You know what I've learned
after all these years?
The right ring isn't about perfection.
It's about knowing who you're choosing,
and choosing her again every day after.
The ring should feel like your forever.
I'll show you a few options.
We'll find Natalie, the perfect ring.
And if I don't have it in the
store, there's nothing saying
I can't find it.
Thanks, Peter.
How about this one?
It looks right.
It's perfect.
Good job.
Come on.
Chris. Hi.
It's Natalie Sands.
Natalie. Hi.
What can I do for you?
I was wondering if you had a
quick second to chat through
that marketing roll out.
Absolutely. Of course.
What can I do?
Yeah. Look, I
again, I am so grateful for
everything you guys are doing.
I, truly.
But you know, this story, it's
it's rooted in faith and in Jesus.
And I just feel like by
removing that from the
marketing,
we're going to lose the heart of it.
I understand.
I hear you and I want you to
know that we love the story and
we love the message.
We're not trying to
change what the book is.
This is about making sure as
many people as possible find it.
Now, we have done the research,
and we've found that a broader,
more secular facing campaign
gives us the best chance at
reaching the widest audience.
And once the readers are in,
the message, it speaks for itself.
So.
You don't feel like it's hiding anything?
No.
I see this as opening the
door and letting people
find it where they are.
And if I wanted to do
some interviews on my own,
speak with some local press,
have conversations where I could
speak openly about my faith and
inspiration behind the book,
would something like that be allowed?
Absolutely. You're the the
author and the voice of this.
We-we fully support you 100%.
Okay. Well thank you.
I really appreciate it.
Chat soon.
Okay, so I have some news.
As you know, Mrs.
Jenkins is letting me do a reading at the
bookstore before the launch,
the night before Christmas Eve.
But
my book goes live for
pre-sale tomorrow morning.
Really?
You're still coming by my
house to watch it go live?
Feeling kind of nervous?
Of course.
I wouldn't miss it.
Thank you, Miss Katie,
for helping me answer a prayer.
Miss Dawson loved the art supplies.
I made you this with them.
Well, thank you, Caroline.
I love it.
How's the rest of the list coming?
Natalie helped me answer the second one.
I think we can do all of them.
And I think so, too.
But... Your list is very long.
And it's okay if we don't finish it all.
And remember, kiddo.
You don't have to do everything perfectly.
Sometimes just showing up is enough.
I know.
Pops, Miss Katie, can you help me get
the cookies in the oven for dessert?
Of course, kiddo.
Come on, let's go.
You don't think she's putting
too much pressure on herself,
do you?
I don't know.
But we're gonna do everything
we can to help her.
What if it's not enough?
Have a little faith, will ya?
All right.
You wash, I dry.
Okay.
Okay.
Peter. Hey.
Hi, Wes.
A ring just came in on loan.
It's a it's a special,
one of a kind vintage diamond.
Off the charts on all four C's.
That sounds perfect.
Yeah, but the thing is, it's traveling.
It's going from New York to California.
The courier is coming to
pick it up in the morning.
And, if you want to see it,
you're going to have to see it
tonight because pictures
will not do this justice.
All right.
I'm coming right now.
Thanks, Peter.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Hey, Peter.
Hey, Wes.
I don't have a ton of time, Peter.
Okay.
Well.
One look is all you will need.
That was my reaction, too.
And it's in my budget?
Yep.
This is perfect.
I'll take it.
That's what I thought you'd say.
Okay.
Well, that's not ideal.
What?
The system's down.
I'll just have to reboot.
This will just take a minute.
Okay. Yeah.
Yeah. A minute's fine.
I have a minute.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Where are you, Wes?
How's it going over there?
Well, it's still just doing its thing.
It should only take a couple more minutes.
Does this happen a lot?
Well, no, not a lot, a lot.
But when it happens, it happens.
No.
What? What now?
Well, it's frozen again.
I'm gonna have to start all over.
This ring really is the one, but.
Just a second.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Any luck?
Because if not,
I'm gonna have to get going.
There we go.
Great.
Can I settle up?
I just have to log back on it.
It just takes a second.
No.
What now?
Now it says my password is incorrect.
You know what, Peter?
I'm.
I'm gonna put the ring on hold.
I gotta get going, but I'll be
back in an hour or two, tops, I promise.
That goes against our policy.
You're... you're.. You're...
You know what?
If I'm meant to have this ring,
it'll still be here when I get back.
It's in God's hands now.
Yes. I'm logged on.
Sorry.
Are you okay?
Yeah. Just.
Is it live?
Yeah.
What if they hate it?
No one's going to hate it.
Where were you?
I tried calling you, like, three times.
Yeah.
Running errands.
The shop system went
down and the whole thing.
Sorry.
It's fine.
What are you doing?
Just pre-ordering my copy
of Adeline the Angel.
It's Chris.
Hey, Chris.
Natalie. Congratulations.
The first article just went live.
I emailed it to you.
Just went live.
There's no faith element.
Again. That's intentional.
It's strategic.
The goal here is reach.
Okay. Which we have.
The article is from a huge outlet.
Now you should feel proud.
Okay. Trust the process.
Listen, I gotta run, but congratulations.
And we will talk soon.
Okay.
Hey.
What's wrong?
I'm trying to be okay with the direction
the publisher is taking the
marketing and trust their
vision, but it's bugging me.
Them leaving out the faith element.
I don't want Jesus to get lost.
And what if I'm adding to the
noise, the consumerism.
I wanted this book to point
people somewhere real.
How can I help?
I don't know.
I think I just need to get quiet.
I feel so disconnected.
I'm proud of you.
No matter what.
I'll see you at choir practice.
Okay?
Wait. Are you leaving?
Yeah, I just have one more
quick errand to run, and then,
I'll see you in a little bit.
Okay. Bye.
Please give me the guidance
on how to handle this.
I really need it right now.
Is the ring still available?
All right, friends,
let's bring the joy tonight.
Is this everyone?
It looks like it is.
You know, um, if you'll just
turn to page 21, we'll get started, okay.
Is she okay?
Her friends didn't show.
Are you feeling any better?
I'm still waiting for clarity.
It'll come.
They were supposed to be there.
Maybe something came up?
I don't want to let God down.
Hey! Come here.
Every time I prayed, something happened.
Why not now?
Jesus
works on his own timing, not ours.
We have to trust that
he knows better than us
that his timing will be the right one.
But what if it's not enough?
What if I could be doing more?
It's not up to you to do more.
It's up to you to trust God.
But if I don't finish the
list, that means I failed him.
No. If you love people,
if you show up,
if you try,
that's already all God wants from you.
This doesn't prove your faith.
Your heart does.
I bet God is very,
very proud of your heart.
I love you, kiddo.
I love you, dad.
I just don't know what I'm doing.
You know, the publisher, the marketing.
It all feels wrong.
Like the message is getting
buried under everything else.
Have you thought about
calling the journalist?
Tell your story.
I don't want to put Caroline
out there like that.
I get that,
but Wes and Caroline might fully
support you sharing it.
Never know if you don't ask.
Do you think you could help me
with those boxes over there?
Yes. Of course.
Where did you get these?
I don't know, they were just
here when I got in, by my office door.
These are on Caroline's prayer list.
She wanted new candles for the church.
Maybe they're from Wes? Or Caroline?
Or maybe somebody else
is answering prayers.
Hello, ladies.
Just dropping off one more box of candles.
I was cleaning out my closet,
and I didn't realize how many
I'd collected over the years.
With the ones from last year burned down,
I thought they'd go to good use here.
I was recently inspired to give back.
All right, here you go.
Who's this one for?
That one is for your pops.
Dad!
What? I'm trying.
Hey..
So I wanted to talk to
you two about something.
Do you remember that
journalist we ran into?
Well, it turns out that she
writes for one of the largest
newspapers in the area,
and I was thinking...
How would you two feel
about me speaking with her
about the Adeline the Angels story?
About our story?
I just...
I just feel like with the
direction the publisher is
taking the marketing,
I want to make sure that I am
sharing the message of Jesus
and not just selling another book.
Of course, protecting you
two is the most important.
I think you should do it.
What?
I think you should, too.
I mean, if people knew why you wrote
it, maybe they'd try
answering prayers, too.
You'd be telling the truth.
And if that helps even just
one person look up from
themselves this Christmas,
that feels worth it.
Are you guys sure?
Yes. Especially if we can help others.
Okay.
Okay. I'll go ahead and
call her later, then.
Thank you.
All right.
So,
who's next on the prayer list?
Drew, the barista at the coffee shop.
I see him studying all the
time, and I know he works so
hard, and he always
gives me extra sprinkles.
I want to make him feel
special this season.
I don't think he has
anyone looking after him.
Hey, I'll be right there.
Sure.
Bridget.
- Hi.
Hi. It's Natalie Sands,
the author of Adeline the Angel.
So, I was giving your
offer some thought, and...
Do you have some time to meet?
Hey, what can I get you?
Can we get three hot chocolates to
go, please?
Extra sprinkles?
Yes, please.
I need three hot chocolates.
One extra sprinkles.
So, what are you studying?
Um.
Social work.
But this year's been pretty rough.
I mean, working and going to
school full time, trying to
balance it all.
It's been a lot.
I, got a final tomorrow.
Well, hang in there.
Thanks. I just...
My goal is to work with kids,
make sure no one feels left behind.
That's a good calling.
Thank you.
Hey. Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
And good luck on your final.
Thanks.
Thanks so much.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
You forgot your present.
Hey.
Hey, Drew.
The usual.
Yeah. Thanks.
Of course.
This one's on the house today.
Thanks, Drew.
Merry Christmas.
So, tell me about the
inspiration for this book.
Yeah.
So, um, so last year,
I was feeling really lost, and, um, I
happened to find this
little girl's prayer list.
Prayer list?
Like a a Christmas list full
of things for other people.
Things she wanted for
them, and not for herself.
You know, it kind of sparked
something inside of me.
And I wondered maybe I
could answer these prayers.
Why?
You know, I don't know.
It kind of felt called to it, like...
You know, and the more I kept doing it,
the more inspired I was and
felt inspired to write about it.
And that's how Adeline the Angel was born.
Did you know this little girl?
No. It turns out that she
happened to live in my neighborhood.
The whole thing actually felt
like it was very set up by God.
But couldn't that just be a coincidence?
I mean, yeah, sure.
But I didn't think it was.
I felt like God was leading me
on a path that I was meant to be.
Feels a bit far-fetched, no?
I don't think so.
You know, God,
God is always working behind
the scenes in our lives.
You just have to be open to receive it.
So this book is selling well?
Yeah.
You're not keeping up with the numbers.
Most authors I speak to
are glued to their stats.
I choose to focus on the message, on
sharing the Word of God,
especially this time of year.
So you don't want people to buy your book?
No, I.
Of course.
Of course I want people to buy my book.
You know, I, I just, um...
Are you a believer?
I was, when I was younger.
What changed?
If you don't mind me asking.
I don't know.
I think life just got busy.
Hey. It's a nice idea in theory,
that there's some higher being
out there that cares about you,
and who's looking out for you.
But I just,
it just seems so far-fetched.
Why?
Because, how can you prove it?
I don't think you can.
Not the way that you're talking about.
But I don't think that's the point.
I don't think faith is
something you can prove.
I think it's something you notice.
You know, those moments you
can't quite make sense of
when you put them on paper.
Or the ones you could maybe try
and explain away if you had the chance.
You know, chalk it up to coincidence.
But every once in a while,
something lines up in a way that feels.
Personal.
Like it wasn't random,
you know, like you were saying
like someone is looking out for
you, they care about you.
They know exactly what you need.
And I think at that point,
you decide whether you're willing
to believe that means something.
And if it doesn't?
Faith.
Faith gives me a reason to keep doing it,
even when it's inconvenient.
Because I choose to believe
that there is someone out there
who loves us more than
we could ever imagine.
And sharing that message means
more to me than any books he'll
ever could.
Well, thanks for this.
Um, it was very
unexpected. Um, the story will
go live the day of your book party launch.
Thanks again for your time.
Okay, so we've knocked off a
few, but we still have a long
way to go.
Okay. Make sure you eat your breakfast.
I will, I just want to make sure
that we don't forget anyone.
I don't want to let God down.
Honey, we talked about this.
I know, I just,
I think we can be doing more.
Maybe we split up.
I'll give this page to Miss Katie.
This page to pops.
Hey, Caroline.
Take a breath.
I don't have time to breathe, dad.
We have prayers to answer.
She keeps saying she doesn't
want to let God down,
and I keep telling her that she
doesn't have to do everything perfectly.
But I don't know if I'm
saying the right thing.
I don't want to mess this up.
You're not messing everything up.
You're showing up.
You're a good support for her.
Faith isn't about shielding
our kids from disappointment.
It's about showing them
what to do when it comes.
God doesn't just disappear when
things don't go the way they hoped.
You got an opportunity here,
to teach Caroline that sometimes
we can get in our own way,
following our own desires, and
that's not in alignment
with what God wants for us.
When that happens, we have to
step back, get quiet, and recenter.
Yeah, I hear you, dad.
But I'm also planning to
propose to Natalie this Christmas.
Well, son, that is so exciting.
I'm thrilled for you, and for Caroline.
To love, to faith and to
not doing any of this alone.
What?
It's your tree.
You can do whatever you want.
Right..
Mhm.
Yeah. Much better.
So, I spoke with that
journalist this morning.
How'd it go?
I don't know.
I, I think I might have tried
too hard to explain everything
instead of just telling the story.
I think it might have come across like.
I was trying to convince her of something.
Now I just keep playing it
over and over in my head,
thinking I made it worse.
Worse how?
Like I talked her out of it.
Like I made
faith seem heavy, instead of hopeful.
I was just trying to get
the heart of my message
out there, but...
I feel like I might
have made things worse.
I don't know what she's gonna write.
I'm sure you did great.
Maybe I could call her, try and explain.
Hey.
- Or I could speak
with a new journalist to try again.
Is that really what you want to do?
No.
I have something for you.
You don't have to wait for Christmas.
I know you do your best
thinking when you write, so.
I felt that maybe this
would help right now.
Yeah.
Thank you.
Yeah. I love you.
I love you, too.
It's all gonna work out.
Just gotta have faith.
Yeah.
Dear Natalie.
I hope it's okay that I
wrote in your journal first.
I love having you in my life,
and I know my dad does, too.
Merry Christmas.
Love, Caroline.
Come in.
Hey, what's going on here?
We are going to answer some prayers.
Can you guys help me pack
up a couple boxes for Hank?
His daughter and his grandsons
are gonna be here any day, and
he needs some Christmas decorations.
Come on.
Sure.
You can take that.
Now, if you could put those in
the box for me, that would be great.
In the box?
Yeah.
Right there.
That box right down there.
Okay.
He's here.
Hey, you guys.
What's all this?
So I was cleaning out my
Christmas closet and happened
to have a few extra decorations.
I wanted to see if they
could be of some use for you.
Are you sure?
Yes. I have so many Christmas decorations.
Seriously,
you would be doing me a huge favor.
Well. Thank you.
How many houses do you
have left on your route?
I'm nearly done.
We could come by your place
when you've done your shift, if
you'd like.
Wonderful. Thank you.
Next time, maybe we could roast
some marshmallows instead of
putting them all in your hot cocoa.
I like them in the hot cocoa.
It's Chris.
Sorry.
Hey.
Chris.
We have a situation.
What kind of situation?
We just got a call from a
journalist asking for a comment.
Now, they didn't give us much,
but whatever article they're
going to be running, it is very off brand.
I can explain.
It's a little too late for that.
This is not good.
Let's just say a prayer that
whatever article that they run,
it doesn't blow everything up.
The article goes live in two days,
so let's just talk then
and assess the damage.
Okay.
Come on.
Pick up, pick up, pick up.
Hi, it's Bridget.
Please leave a message.
What is it?
Are you okay?
I shouldn't have talked
to that journalist.
You couldn't have said anything that bad.
Well, whatever I said,
it was enough to make the publisher
very unhappy.
Well, you'll just have to wait
until the article goes live.
It's in God's hands.
Hey, you know what you need?
The time machine.
So I can redo that interview.
Something to get you out of your head.
What's left on Caroline's prayer list?
Let's see.
We got a wreath for the coffee shop.
A gift for Drew.
We took those Christmas
decorations to Hank today.
Church got some new candles,
so that leaves a few things...
Help Miss Hannah get ready for the baby.
That's such a fun one.
You know, Caroline was right.
I have been so focused on
myself and on this book and how
it will be received,
when I should be focused on Him,
and giving back.
I love that she brought back
the prayer list this year.
We should make it a tradition.
I would love that.
Hey, where are you going?
We are going to get you out of
your rut by doing what Jesus
taught us to do.
Love others.
Come on, let's go answer a prayer.
Hi?
We thought you could use a
little celebrating before the
baby comes.
Guys.
And from Natalie.
May God's Word be a lamp to
your feet and a light to your path.
May you always remember that
you are beautifully, perfectly
holy made.
I can't thank you all
enough for showing up today.
We're happy to do it.
We've been there.
I think I've spent so much time
trying to be a good villager,
I forgot I needed a village.
Thank you for being in my village.
This baby is very lucky.
We're so lucky.
And you don't have to do it alone.
Community is the key.
And it's a good reminder for the season.
For all seasons.
I remember being so nervous
when I was in your shoes.
You got any tips?
Well.
Brr.
Hey.
Good timing.
I thought you were a bad guy.
Nope. Just a guy who was bad at cooking.
Well, doesn't look like it to me.
What made you decide to do all of this?
I wanted to do something
special for you tonight.
No book stuff, no answering prayers.
Just us.
You know, Natalie, I've been thinking.
And.
Can you try the sauce for me?
I feel like it might
need some more oregano.
Yes.
Look at all this.
The guys were great.
You know, gave me a lot to think about.
I'm so glad you're leaning
into that relationship with them.
Me, too.
It's been a long time since
I've let myself have time for friends.
Well, community is key.
It is.
And since I've met you,
I've found my community growing
in ways I couldn't have imagined.
Did you hear that?
Hear what?
That music.
There's no music.
Yeah. There is.
Will you dance with me?
What? Now, that wasn't music.
Come on.
Okay.
Thanks for making me feel like
I have a place where I belong.
You make it easy.
You know,
you and I,
we make a pretty great team.
And.
Have I told you lately
you're my dream woman?
Well, that might be
the most romantic thing
you've ever said to me.
I love you.
I love you, too.
Can't wait for tomorrow.
Me, too.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Okay. Before you tell me not
to make a big deal out of this.
I made you something.
You didn't have to do that.
And you didn't have to clean my shower.
So, we're even.
There's a place to write down
prayers, notice needs, and take
small steps to love
people well all year long.
Hannah.
They're inspired by Adeline, and by you,
but mostly by Caroline.
I thought it could be a good
way to help people keep their
own prayer lists.
Notice people do something
about it when they can.
Community,
which was a prayer I've had for you,
so you wouldn't feel like the
weight of the world or the
church or Christmas
or others is all on your shoulders.
You show up for this
community all the time.
We want to show up for you, too.
Thank you.
Learn to have a village,
and not just be a villager.
Well, in the spirit of being a villager,
can I talk to you about something?
Anything. Always.
So I did call that journalist.
How did it go?
In the moment?
It was,
it was really good.
But then after she left, I...
It felt like I over shared
like I was trying too hard to
compensate for something.
And then she called the
publisher asking for a quote.
And then they called me because
they didn't like the direction
she was taking the article.
And now, I just...
I can't stop freaking out
thinking that I've basically
ruined everything.
Natalie, one bad article isn't
going to make or break you, or
your literary career.
If that journalist didn't like your
story, ride it out.
The media cycle is so quick.
The article will be old
news in a couple of days.
Pun intended.
Hey, you have worked so
hard for this moment.
Don't let anyone take that away from you.
Thank you for being my friend.
Girl. Easy.
What would I do without you?
What would I do without you?
Thank you.
All right, let's put these in.
Yes. So if we maybe do this one.
Yeah, I love that.
Hey, kiddo.
Can I run something by you?
What's up?
Since your mom passed,
it's just been me and
you against the world.
And we've done everything together.
And I really feel like you are
the greatest gift I've ever
been given.
You're being really sappy, dad.
I know, I know.
Um. What I'm saying is,
it's just been us,
until Natalie came along.
And she made you smile again.
And she made me smile again.
And then it was the two
of you against the world.
And I've just been trying to keep up.
And I've been thinking about us,
about our family, our future.
And.
I was wondering how you'd feel if,
if I asked her to marry me?
I think that'd be a really good idea.
You do?
I think she makes us both really happy.
You have my blessing.
But, only if you can promise one thing.
Name it.
That we still do pizza night
and that she still sits with me
during church.
Deal.
I love you, kiddo.
I love you, dad.
I hope she says yes.
Me too.
I am going to throw that
thing out the window
if you check that news site one more time.
I just don't know why the
article hasn't gone live yet.
Maybe it's a blessing in disguise.
Come on, let's go enjoy ourselves.
Trying to find the nuclear launch codes?
Something like that.
Actually, there's something
I've been meaning to talk to
you about.
I've loved helping you at the firm.
You've become one of my best friends.
But I feel like I'm being
called to do something else.
To go back to teaching.
I didn't know that was
something you were considering.
It wasn't until I ran into
Caroline's teacher, and she
told me the school needed substitutes.
Yeah, it's been on my heart ever since.
Well, then I think you
should listen to that.
As long as you're still going
to be around to help me plan
the firm Christmas party.
I couldn't do that without you.
Deal.
Hello, everyone.
Um, first of all,
thank you so much for being here today.
It it truly means the world
to me having you all here.
This book was inspired by each of you.
Now, it might be my name on the
cover, but it doesn't belong to
myself alone.
It came from this town.
From showing up for each
other, from noticing,
from choosing service.
Even when it is easier to be comfortable.
It came
from a beautiful friend of mine
who helped me remember to
slow down this time of year,
and be in community with others.
Now, before I begin the
reading, could you all do me a
favor and join hands with
the person next to you?
Thank you.
Lord. We are so grateful for
this wonderful community, for
the ways that you show up
through small acts of service,
through open hearts,
and through people who are willing
to serve.
Help us to keep our focus on
others, not just this time of
the year, but throughout the entire year.
Help us to carry your message
beyond the lights, the music,
and the gifts.
We are so thankful for the
greatest gift of all, your son.
In His name we pray.
Amen.
Amen.
My gosh,
I think I'm in labor.
Yeah. Definitely in labor.
Okay.
I just got off the phone with Stephen.
Hannah is doing great,
but he's going to keep us updated
throughout the night.
Have you guys seen Wes?
No.
Not me.
No.
Miss Jenkins,
you haven't seen Wes, have you?
No. Sorry.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Natalie
Bridget. Hi.
Thank you so much for coming.
Thank you for the invite.
And thank you for the beautiful
article, for not shying away
from the heart of it, from Jesus.
I meant every word.
So will there be a sequel?
I don't know.
I, I guess it would have to feel right.
Like this one did.
Can I ask you something?
Mhm.
If the commercial side of all
this makes you uneasy, would
you ever consider something else?
Like what?
A charity?
Something that lives beyond a book.
A way to spread the word through action.
I hadn't thought of that.
I'll have to pray on it. Thank you.
I really hope to see you again.
You know,
I usually attend the 11:00 service.
Eighth pew on the left, just in case.
I'll remember that.
There you are.
Where did you disappear to?
I just had to take care of something.
Something like what?
Just stuff.
No big deal.
It kind of is.
I've been looking for you everywhere.
I know, I just had to do a thing.
What kind of a thing?
You know, you have been
doing this a lot lately.
You've been dodging and disappearing
and, and acting
like you're somewhere else,
even when you're standing right
in front of me.
That's not true.
Well, then help me understand,
because right now, it feels
like you're keeping
something from me, Wes.
What's going on with you?
I just wanted to celebrate
with you tonight.
I know.
I just didn't expect to...
Look.
I'm sorry.
It's getting late.
I'll see you at church.
Here they come.
Miss Katie.
You two.
Hi.
Do you have a moment?
Of course.
So one year ago,
I put on my prayer list that I prayed for
my dad to be happy again.
And since he met Natalie, that happened.
He's never been as happy as he is now.
So we were gonna ask you if it's okay if,
Miss Sands, I would love for
your permission to ask for your
granddaughter's hand in marriage.
Wes, Caroline.
You two are such a gift.
Hey, guys.
What's everyone doing?
Nothing.
Just talking.
Yep. Talking.
Mhm.
Okay. Well, should we take a seat?
The service is about to start.
Yeah. Mhm.
Of course.
I'll give you my blessing.
Thank you.
Born to you this day in the
city of David, a savior.
Who is Christ the Lord.
And this will be the sign to you.
You will find a babe wrapped in
swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with
the angel a multitude of the
heavenly host, praising God and
saying, Glory to God in the
highest, and on earth
peace, Goodwill toward men.
Natalie.
Hey.
Hi.
That was a beautiful service.
I'm really glad you came.
Me, too.
I'll see you next week.
Eighth pew on the left.
Right?
Yeah.
Thank you.
Hello?
Natalie. Hi.
I am so sorry to call you on
Christmas Eve, but that article.
Bridget Garner's piece about
the origin of the book,
Carolyn's Faith,
Bridget's follow up about the prayer
cards at the launch and the
potential for a charity.
Well, we've been getting
a lot of inquiries.
And the message
it's done more for the book
than our marketing ever could have.
I should have trusted your vision.
Gone with what was authentic to you.
Your message.
Well.
It wasn't my message.
It was the message of Jesus.
And I understand that you were
just trying to reach a broader audience.
Well, everyone here agrees that
we want to follow your vision
from start to finish for the sequel.
That is, if you'll, you'll have us.
I'm sorry.
Yes. Thank you.
Um,
is it okay if I give it some
thought and call you after Christmas?
Of course.
And Natalie,
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Is everything okay?
I just got offered a sequel.
Congratulations!
Thank you.
Tom, does your firm have any
experience in nonprofits?
Do we have any experience?
Natalie. Are you kidding me?
We almost live there.
I'm thinking I want to start a nonprofit.
Adeline's acts.
You know, if I'm going to do this again.
I want it to be bigger than just a book.
I want to give back.
For real.
Do you think your firm
could help me with that?
Of course.
We'd be happy to.
Have you guys seen Wes?
No, no, no, I haven't seen him.
This is for you.
What's this?
Just read it.
Let's just go home and make some pizza.
Yeah. Let's go.
We'll see you there.
For Caroline to feel
supported in her journey.
For my dad to trust that his
work matters and to not feel
the need to prove himself.
For Katie to remember who she
was before she started putting
everyone else first,
even though she's been very helpful
to my father.
And to find joy for herself again.
For Natalie to have a
successful book launch, and
realize she doesn't have to
do everything on her own.
What's this?
My prayer list.
I had some things weighing on my
heart, and I figured.
God might have had
something to do with them.
So I took a page out of
Caroline's playbook and
prayed about them.
I'm sorry I've been so
distant and distracted.
Wes, I'm sorry for the
things that I've said.
It was warranted.
I haven't been honest with you.
Since I first met you,
I've known you were different.
The way you move through
the world is unlike anyone
I've ever met.
And when we started dating,
I felt like everything
about my life just clicked.
You've changed me for the
better in so many ways and
given me a community I
didn't realize I needed.
And I've been given a lot
of thought about that.
But what that means for me, for Caroline.
And I realized
every future I envision for us,
includes you.
I don't want to do any
of this without you.
I love you so much.
So, Natalie Sands.
Will you marry me?
Yeah.
Absolutely. Yes.
I love you.
I love you.
Did she say yes?
She did.
I'm so glad, I love you, Natalie.
I love you, too, Caroline.
Do you know what was on the
last page of my prayer list?
I've been praying for this all year.
Awesome.
Yeah.
I understand.
Yeah, I'm really excited too.
Remind me, when do we go live for presale?
I'm just on my way right now to
drop off the physical copies to
the bookstore.
Yeah.
I can do that.
Yeah. Chat soon.
Hey. Excuse me.
Sorry.
Hi.
It's okay.
Sorry. I wasn't paying attention.
Neither was I.
How'd the call with your publisher go?
Good. They want me to come
in and go over the marketing
strategy for the book launch.
I'm so proud of you.
I love you.
I love you, too.
Shall we?
We shall.
How's it coming over here?
Good.
About halfway done.
Thank you for letting me
host your book launch.
It's already done a wonder
for our holiday sales
numbers, which we needed.
Are you kidding me?
I wouldn't have wanted
to do it anywhere else.
This story is special, Natalie.
There's a lot of heart in it.
And the message is, well,
we can all learn a little
something from Adeline.
I'm glad you're part of it.
I just hope everyone
feels the same way you do.
I know they will.
I just, I don't want to disappoint anyone.
That's not possible, dear.
Thanks, Mrs. Jenkins.
I mean every word.
Now, I do want a cup of tea.
I was just about to put on a kettle.
Sounds good.
Please be seated.
God bless you.
And just a reminder,
sign ups are open for the choir for
our candlelight Christmas Eve service.
We would love to have you all participate.
Okay. Officially accepting guesses.
How many days until this baby
makes a dramatic entrance?
I think I'm going with tonight.
You said that last night.
You look amazing, though.
How are you feeling?
Good.
Even if I haven't seen
my feet since September.
Hannah, you're absolutely glowing.
Thanks. It's pregnancy sweat.
It's quite warm in here.
Really? How's the firm?
Good. Solid.
I just keep thinking it
should feel bigger by now.
It will, you're just getting started.
Yeah, but I couldn't do
it without you, Katie.
I'm just happy to help.
Hey, Tom.
Thanks again for introducing
me to that publisher.
Of course.
I'm so glad it worked out.
We all can't wait for the book
launch, Natalie.
I've actually already told my
mom she's got to get at least
two copies.
You're signing up for the choir?
Hey, I don't know if I actually mentioned.
I host the church's men's Bible study.
It's nothing fancy.
Just a couple of us getting together.
Yeah.
Yeah,
I have a couple of other
dads from the church, too.
It's a really good group.
Thanks.
Men's Bible study?
Yeah. I don't know.
Why not?
I think it's a good idea.
Dad. Natalie,
can we pick up dinner at Lino's?
Absolutely, I am starving.
Come on, let's go.
Dear Heavenly Father,
we are grateful for the blessing of
this food and for the
hands that prepared it.
As we get closer to this
Christmas season, help us to
remember why we celebrate.
Help us to see the people who need
love, and help us to be
generous with our time,
and brave with our kindness.
Thank you for the gift of your
Son, Jesus Christ.
In his name we pray.
Amen.
Amen.
- Amen.
Are you ever going to tell me
what you're doing with that thing?
You've been carrying it
around with you for months.
You have been a little secretive.
Well, because I didn't
want to miss anything.
Miss anything?
I've been trying to keep track of people.
Like in a spy kind of way.
In a prayer kind of way.
Last Christmas you helped
answer prayers and this year I
want to try to.
You made people feel really
loved and I want to do that.
Show people that they're not alone.
Someone's paying attention
like Jesus would.
That's really nice of you,
sweetie, but it's a lot to take on.
I know, but that doesn't
mean I don't want to try.
I've been keeping notes all
year for kids in my class,
people at church, and in our neighborhood.
You mind if I take a look?
No.
Dad, can I be excused?
I need to finish putting the
candy canes on the Christmas
cards for my class.
Okay, but be quick.
You still have your dinner to finish.
I think your heart's in the right place.
Yeah.
I'm equal parts proud and worried.
I don't want her to be disappointed.
Maybe we help her.
Yeah?
Yeah. I mean, think about it.
We have both been so busy,
between your work and my book
launch, we've barely had any
time to do anything fun.
And I think it would
mean the world to her.
You know, you did say that if
I ever found myself answering
prayers again,
that you would love to help.
I did say that, didn't I?
Yeah.
Yeah. You know what?
I think it's a great idea.
I love you.
I love you, too.
Come on, kiddo, eat up.
I'm gonna be late.
Can I take a look at
that list one more time?
Sure. Just not the last page.
What's on the last page?
My own prayer.
Why can't I see?
Because.
Because why?
Please, dad.
Okay, fine.
Not the last page.
There's a lot of stuff in here, kiddo.
I know.
I've been praying about it, and
I know God will show me the way.
I can't promise we'll be able
to answer all these prayers, but.
I can definitely try.
Really? You want to help me?
Yeah. If you want me to.
I do.
Why didn't you tell me about this sooner?
I would have loved to help you do this.
I just...
I didn't want to bother you.
I know you're busy with work,
and Natalie's got so much going
on with her book coming out.
I'm sorry if we felt too busy lately.
I want to change that.
Just so I don't forget anything.
Okay, one more bite,
and then it's time for school.
And don't forget,
pops is picking you up today.
He's going to take you
to see The Nutcracker.
He promised me we'd get
popcorn and chocolate.
Hey, your coat.
Caroline.
Let's talk marketing for Adeline.
So as you can see here,
we're going for buzzy.
We're really excited about the launch.
Early numbers are strong.
Retailers are on board,
and we think this can be
something really special.
Right. Yes.
Um, well, first of all,
this is this is so beautiful.
But I think we're missing something.
Snowflakes. I know I have
Olivia in design working on it.
No, no, I mean, um,
Jesus,
this is a story about an
angel, about answering prayers.
Yeah, well, that was intentional.
What?
We love the story.
We love the message.
That's why we signed it.
But marketing is about first impressions.
Who feels invited to pick it up?
Jesus is the message.
Absolutely. In the book, 100%.
But for marketing,
we're thinking broader, more universal.
We want to target a broader demographic.
And we think that if we lead
with a faith language right out
of the gate, then we limit
the audience before they even
open the cover.
But this story,
this exists because of my faith.
I admire your conviction
and I share it, I do.
I agree.
Jesus is the reason for the season.
Yes.
- Yes.
But.
But?
Look, think of it this way.
If we don't include Jesus in
the marketing, we have a chance
to reach readers who wouldn't
typically pick up a faith based book.
People who don't have Jesus on
their radar, people who might
not be searching for him but
may encounter him through the story.
Now, it is a good story
with a great message.
It's a big opportunity to
meet people where they are.
But is that deceitful?
Natalie, no.
Goodness. No.
It's marketing.
Marketing...
Right. I just, I don't want to
lose the heart of why I wrote
this and what this book means.
We don't want to lose that either.
I want you to think of
this as the doorway,
Natalie. Not the house.
Okay?
Now, about the book launch party.
Yes, we're doing it at Mrs.
Jenkins bookshop.
Right. Which it's a,
it's a very lovely bookshop.
But the team and I,
we were thinking bigger.
Bigger.
Bigger. Now,
this here is a list of all the large
commercial retailers who are
excited to host the event.
I just want you to take a look at it.
Think it over.
We can go bigger than
a community bookstore.
I want you to dream big on this.
This has massive potential.
I'll think about it.
Great.
Great.
But don't take too long.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Sorry, I'm a bit slow today.
Hey! You're pregnant.
You are allowed to be slow.
So, how did things with your publisher go?
It was good.
Exciting..
Also complicated.
Complicated how?
They want to market the
book in a more secular way.
Like?
Like less Jesus, more winter wonder.
They think it'll reach more people.
I mean,
I sort of get what they're saying.
So do I.
But I don't know where the line
is between being accessible and
missing the point of this whole book.
What does Wes think?
I don't know, we haven't had
a chance to chat about it yet.
You okay?
I think so.
Probably just a Braxton Hicks contraction.
I know I joke about this baby
coming any day now, but just
the closer I get,
the more I feel wildly unprepared.
What do you mean?
The nursery's half done at best.
The house is a mess.
I keep thinking that I have time.
Then I don't.
Christmas, and the outreach services.
I...
I blinked and suddenly
I'm nine months pregnant.
I don't think anyone ever feels ready.
Yeah.
I just, I keep telling myself
that I'll catch up, right?
That once Christmas is
over, I can breathe again.
Christmas does have a funny way
of showing up, whether we're
ready or not.
I guess that applies for babies, too.
I haven't even installed the car seat.
Okay, well, now that is
something we need to take care of.
Yeah.
I can help you.
I'll help you.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Let's keep this going.
- Slowly.
Yeah. Give me a second.
Hank. Hey, why don't you come in?
It's cold out there.
Thanks, boss.
Don't mind if I do.
Here. Got something for you.
Thank you.
How's your day going so far?
Hey. What you got there?
Nothing.
Just bills and stuff.
Um, you're back early.
Yeah. Things wrapped up
quicker than expected.
Now I just got to fold these
pamphlets for the Christmas Eve service.
Hi, Hank.
Afternoon, Natalie.
How are you?
Your daughter and her sons
arrive here any day now, right?
Later this week.
It's the first time I've ever
hosted them for Christmas.
But I keep thinking.
What if it's not magical enough?
Hank, it will be.
You know, actually,
I was planning on making some
gingerbread cookies today.
How about I bring some by with
some frosting and sprinkles and
you guys can decorate them?
Really? That wouldn't
be any trouble at all?
No, not at all.
Well, then, thank you, I'd love that.
Sounds like a pretty
great start to Christmas.
Sure does.
Have a good afternoon, you two.
Thanks, Hank.
See ya.
What was that look?
What look?
The look you just gave me.
There is no look.
Mhm.
Assembly line rules.
I fold, you stack.
You don't want me to fold?
I think I'm good.
You got it.
Men's Bible study is tonight, right?
Mhm.
You gonna go?
I don't know.
I mean, my dad is taking
Caroline to The Nutcracker tonight.
And I've got some book
work I've got to get done.
So...
So, it would make sense for you to
go, if you want to.
I just don't feel very
confident with my faith and all.
Well, that's the point of the group,
to grow in a community together.
Okay.
I'll text Stephen later
and tell him I'm coming.
I'm proud of you.
Thanks for being so
understanding with me while
I figure all this out.
Hey,
there's nothing to figure out.
This is just like any other relationship.
The more time you spend with the Lord,
the deeper your relationship will get.
I,
Told Caroline we'd help her
with the prayer list if you're
still up for it.
Of course.
First one.
Let's see.
A wreath for the coffee shop.
Well, what if I picked up
Caroline from school tomorrow
and we can find the perfect one?
She'd absolutely love that.
Okay. Before I forget,
my book goes on pre-sale this week.
And I know this is silly, but
could you come over and
watch it go live with me?
Of course, I wouldn't miss it.
Thanks.
Hey, Wes, you made it.
Come on in.
We're just about to get started.
Everyone, this is Wes.
Wes, welcome.
Thank you.
Shall we?
Yeah.
- Great.
You can take a seat there, if you like.
Thank you.
All right, before we get started,
Stephen. Any day now, right?
We're officially in the
baby can show up at any minute now, zone.
And I'm pretending to be
calm, but I'm not.
That's fatherhood, man.
You're doing great.
And panicking simultaneously.
Yeah, it gets easier.
The anticipation is the hardest part.
Well, all the prayers are welcome.
God chose you to be the
father of this child.
That wasn't a mistake.
Thanks, guys.
Should we pray for Stephen
and Hannah and the baby?
Lord, thank you for this
new life on the way.
For strength,
peace and protection over Hannah as she
gives birth, and wisdom and
strength for Stephen as he
steps into this new role.
I found this great recipe where
you put sprinkles in the batter.
That sounds yummy.
What's up buttercup?
Nothing.
It's the marketing for Adelaine the Angel.
They want to take the
faith completely out of it.
What do you mean?
Well.
The team says that if the
marketing doesn't include
Jesus, it's more likely
to reach a wider audience.
And I know that they think
they're helping reaching more
people, but I don't want
Jesus to be an afterthought.
Isn't that kind of the whole point?
And I just feel like that's
kind of getting lost at
Christmas time.
And I don't want that
to happen with my book.
Is there anything you can do about it?
I don't think so.
I was looking over my contract
earlier and they have full
control over publicity and marketing.
It's a wonder they're even
letting me have my book launch
at Mrs. Jenkins bookstore.
I don't know.
I'm just kind of feeling burnt out.
Sounds like you need
some time to be still.
I think I'm going to try and
answer some more prayers this year.
You know, get back to
the heart of this season.
Really?
Yeah.
- How?
Caroline. Caroline has a list.
Turns out she's been keeping
track of people's needs all year.
That's,
that's the most beautiful
way to look at the world.
Well, tell me, what's on the list.
Well, let's see. Wes texted me it.
You want to answer one of those tonight?
Isn't it late?
Well, the craft store is open till eight.
If we hurry, we can make it
and get some supplies for.
Caroline's teacher.
I love it.
I'll drive.
Here we go.
Hey, guys.
How's the Nutcracker?
Dad, you wouldn't believe it.
The dancing mice and the sword fight.
It was so cool.
I want to hear more about it
after you put on your pajamas
and brush your teeth.
Thanks again for taking her.
So, how was Bible study?
It was good.
Yeah. Um.
I'm still new at all this faith
church.
I know we went when I was a kid, but
after taking such an extended hiatus, I.
I'm still finding my way back.
I keep wondering if I'm doing it wrong.
That feeling is natural,
and there's no right or wrong way
to have a relationship with the Lord.
All he asks of us is to show up.
Which you're doing.
Yeah.
It just feels like the other
guys have it more figured out
than I do.
It's a season,
and it's great that you're building a
foundation to grow with these
men so that they can walk you
through all the seasons.
Pops, remember when the sugar
plum fairies were dancing and
then it started snowing?
That was so cool.
That was my favorite part.
I want to do ballet lessons, too. Got it?
Those don't look like your pajamas.
She told me she wants to go again.
Miss Dawson, are these new art supplies?
They are.
This basket was on my desk this morning.
Who are they from?
I don't know,
but it came with this note.
Miss Dawson,
thank you for all that you do.
You are so loved and
we are praying for you.
Merry Christmas.
Natalie. Natalie.
It happened.
What happened?
Miss Dawson, she got new art supplies.
Did you have anything to do with it?
It was mostly my Grandy.
Now come on, we've got a
wreath and some bows to find.
And I know just the place.
Let's go.
Hey, Tom.
Hey. I'm gonna be a bit late.
Gotta drop something off.
Give me a call when you're done, okay.
Bye.
Miss Dawson.
Can I help you?
I found these in my car.
I thought they could go to a good home.
Thank you.
My kids love colored pencils.
They are so creative at that
age, aren't they?
I was actually a teacher here.
Retired a few years ago.
Taught fourth grade just down the hall.
It's my first year.
Any advice?
I could write a book.
Some things I learned the hard way.
Um. I find that kids work
better when they have some responsibility.
Assign two supply managers each
week, they will guard
these art supplies and anything
else you assign to them, like treasure.
Anything else?
If a lesson goes sideways,
stop and start reading out loud.
Any chapter book will do that.
Resets the classroom.
These are gold.
Another favorite was to have a
small stash of emergency winds,
crossword puzzles, drawing
prompts, silent reading cards
on the days when nothing goes as planned.
Fourth graders smell panic.
Thank you.
I really want to do a good job for them.
They only get one childhood.
I want to get it right.
The face you're worrying
about getting it right,
means you already are.
The rest just takes time.
These days might be long,
but one day you'll look back and be
so proud of the work you did.
It's lovely to meet you, Miss Dawson.
I didn't catch your name.
I'm Katie.
Well, Katie, it was lovely to meet you.
Thank you for all the advice.
You're probably really busy,
but if you have some time on
your hands, the school's hiring
some substitute teachers.
I would love to put in a good word for you
with Principal Gregson.
Not that you need it.
Well, I will give it some thought.
Have a Merry Christmas.
You too.
She always did the bows extra fancy.
She sure did.
I hope we can find something like it here.
No.
Natalie.
Do you think it's hard loving
someone for a really long time?
Sometimes.
But I also think it can be the
easiest thing, if it's the right person.
Like you and my dad?
I hope so.
Me too.
You make him really happy.
You make me really happy.
You both make me very happy.
So I think we are all very blessed.
Do you think God cares about
little things like bows on cafes?
I think God cares about people.
And sometimes it's the little
things that make people feel loved.
My favorite Christmas thing
is candlelight service.
I love how pretty the church looks.
Only lit by candle.
That's mine too.
I just I love how quiet it gets.
You know, it feels
safe.
That's it.
That's exactly it.
High five.
Do you think we should
add a few more bows?
Right here.
Natalie Sands?
Hi.
Hi, I'm Bridget Gardner.
I write for the Bedford Falls Gazette.
I've been hearing a lot about your
book, Adeline the Angel.
You've got quite a grassroots buzz going.
I'd love to talk to you about it.
Find out your inspiration behind
it, where it came from,
your story, your version.
Thank you.
I, um,
I'll have to think about it.
Of course.
No pressure.
Give me a call anytime.
I'll be around.
Come on, let's go hang this up.
Well, if it isn't Wes Thornton.
Hey, Peter. How you doing?
Good, good.
What brings you in?
Um.
I want to propose.
Congratulations.
I've been looking for the
right ring for a while now, but
everything feels almost right.
But not quite perfect.
I don't want to get this wrong.
You know what I've learned
after all these years?
The right ring isn't about perfection.
It's about knowing who you're choosing,
and choosing her again every day after.
The ring should feel like your forever.
I'll show you a few options.
We'll find Natalie, the perfect ring.
And if I don't have it in the
store, there's nothing saying
I can't find it.
Thanks, Peter.
How about this one?
It looks right.
It's perfect.
Good job.
Come on.
Chris. Hi.
It's Natalie Sands.
Natalie. Hi.
What can I do for you?
I was wondering if you had a
quick second to chat through
that marketing roll out.
Absolutely. Of course.
What can I do?
Yeah. Look, I
again, I am so grateful for
everything you guys are doing.
I, truly.
But you know, this story, it's
it's rooted in faith and in Jesus.
And I just feel like by
removing that from the
marketing,
we're going to lose the heart of it.
I understand.
I hear you and I want you to
know that we love the story and
we love the message.
We're not trying to
change what the book is.
This is about making sure as
many people as possible find it.
Now, we have done the research,
and we've found that a broader,
more secular facing campaign
gives us the best chance at
reaching the widest audience.
And once the readers are in,
the message, it speaks for itself.
So.
You don't feel like it's hiding anything?
No.
I see this as opening the
door and letting people
find it where they are.
And if I wanted to do
some interviews on my own,
speak with some local press,
have conversations where I could
speak openly about my faith and
inspiration behind the book,
would something like that be allowed?
Absolutely. You're the the
author and the voice of this.
We-we fully support you 100%.
Okay. Well thank you.
I really appreciate it.
Chat soon.
Okay, so I have some news.
As you know, Mrs.
Jenkins is letting me do a reading at the
bookstore before the launch,
the night before Christmas Eve.
But
my book goes live for
pre-sale tomorrow morning.
Really?
You're still coming by my
house to watch it go live?
Feeling kind of nervous?
Of course.
I wouldn't miss it.
Thank you, Miss Katie,
for helping me answer a prayer.
Miss Dawson loved the art supplies.
I made you this with them.
Well, thank you, Caroline.
I love it.
How's the rest of the list coming?
Natalie helped me answer the second one.
I think we can do all of them.
And I think so, too.
But... Your list is very long.
And it's okay if we don't finish it all.
And remember, kiddo.
You don't have to do everything perfectly.
Sometimes just showing up is enough.
I know.
Pops, Miss Katie, can you help me get
the cookies in the oven for dessert?
Of course, kiddo.
Come on, let's go.
You don't think she's putting
too much pressure on herself,
do you?
I don't know.
But we're gonna do everything
we can to help her.
What if it's not enough?
Have a little faith, will ya?
All right.
You wash, I dry.
Okay.
Okay.
Peter. Hey.
Hi, Wes.
A ring just came in on loan.
It's a it's a special,
one of a kind vintage diamond.
Off the charts on all four C's.
That sounds perfect.
Yeah, but the thing is, it's traveling.
It's going from New York to California.
The courier is coming to
pick it up in the morning.
And, if you want to see it,
you're going to have to see it
tonight because pictures
will not do this justice.
All right.
I'm coming right now.
Thanks, Peter.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Hey, Peter.
Hey, Wes.
I don't have a ton of time, Peter.
Okay.
Well.
One look is all you will need.
That was my reaction, too.
And it's in my budget?
Yep.
This is perfect.
I'll take it.
That's what I thought you'd say.
Okay.
Well, that's not ideal.
What?
The system's down.
I'll just have to reboot.
This will just take a minute.
Okay. Yeah.
Yeah. A minute's fine.
I have a minute.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Where are you, Wes?
How's it going over there?
Well, it's still just doing its thing.
It should only take a couple more minutes.
Does this happen a lot?
Well, no, not a lot, a lot.
But when it happens, it happens.
No.
What? What now?
Well, it's frozen again.
I'm gonna have to start all over.
This ring really is the one, but.
Just a second.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Any luck?
Because if not,
I'm gonna have to get going.
There we go.
Great.
Can I settle up?
I just have to log back on it.
It just takes a second.
No.
What now?
Now it says my password is incorrect.
You know what, Peter?
I'm.
I'm gonna put the ring on hold.
I gotta get going, but I'll be
back in an hour or two, tops, I promise.
That goes against our policy.
You're... you're.. You're...
You know what?
If I'm meant to have this ring,
it'll still be here when I get back.
It's in God's hands now.
Yes. I'm logged on.
Sorry.
Are you okay?
Yeah. Just.
Is it live?
Yeah.
What if they hate it?
No one's going to hate it.
Where were you?
I tried calling you, like, three times.
Yeah.
Running errands.
The shop system went
down and the whole thing.
Sorry.
It's fine.
What are you doing?
Just pre-ordering my copy
of Adeline the Angel.
It's Chris.
Hey, Chris.
Natalie. Congratulations.
The first article just went live.
I emailed it to you.
Just went live.
There's no faith element.
Again. That's intentional.
It's strategic.
The goal here is reach.
Okay. Which we have.
The article is from a huge outlet.
Now you should feel proud.
Okay. Trust the process.
Listen, I gotta run, but congratulations.
And we will talk soon.
Okay.
Hey.
What's wrong?
I'm trying to be okay with the direction
the publisher is taking the
marketing and trust their
vision, but it's bugging me.
Them leaving out the faith element.
I don't want Jesus to get lost.
And what if I'm adding to the
noise, the consumerism.
I wanted this book to point
people somewhere real.
How can I help?
I don't know.
I think I just need to get quiet.
I feel so disconnected.
I'm proud of you.
No matter what.
I'll see you at choir practice.
Okay?
Wait. Are you leaving?
Yeah, I just have one more
quick errand to run, and then,
I'll see you in a little bit.
Okay. Bye.
Please give me the guidance
on how to handle this.
I really need it right now.
Is the ring still available?
All right, friends,
let's bring the joy tonight.
Is this everyone?
It looks like it is.
You know, um, if you'll just
turn to page 21, we'll get started, okay.
Is she okay?
Her friends didn't show.
Are you feeling any better?
I'm still waiting for clarity.
It'll come.
They were supposed to be there.
Maybe something came up?
I don't want to let God down.
Hey! Come here.
Every time I prayed, something happened.
Why not now?
Jesus
works on his own timing, not ours.
We have to trust that
he knows better than us
that his timing will be the right one.
But what if it's not enough?
What if I could be doing more?
It's not up to you to do more.
It's up to you to trust God.
But if I don't finish the
list, that means I failed him.
No. If you love people,
if you show up,
if you try,
that's already all God wants from you.
This doesn't prove your faith.
Your heart does.
I bet God is very,
very proud of your heart.
I love you, kiddo.
I love you, dad.
I just don't know what I'm doing.
You know, the publisher, the marketing.
It all feels wrong.
Like the message is getting
buried under everything else.
Have you thought about
calling the journalist?
Tell your story.
I don't want to put Caroline
out there like that.
I get that,
but Wes and Caroline might fully
support you sharing it.
Never know if you don't ask.
Do you think you could help me
with those boxes over there?
Yes. Of course.
Where did you get these?
I don't know, they were just
here when I got in, by my office door.
These are on Caroline's prayer list.
She wanted new candles for the church.
Maybe they're from Wes? Or Caroline?
Or maybe somebody else
is answering prayers.
Hello, ladies.
Just dropping off one more box of candles.
I was cleaning out my closet,
and I didn't realize how many
I'd collected over the years.
With the ones from last year burned down,
I thought they'd go to good use here.
I was recently inspired to give back.
All right, here you go.
Who's this one for?
That one is for your pops.
Dad!
What? I'm trying.
Hey..
So I wanted to talk to
you two about something.
Do you remember that
journalist we ran into?
Well, it turns out that she
writes for one of the largest
newspapers in the area,
and I was thinking...
How would you two feel
about me speaking with her
about the Adeline the Angels story?
About our story?
I just...
I just feel like with the
direction the publisher is
taking the marketing,
I want to make sure that I am
sharing the message of Jesus
and not just selling another book.
Of course, protecting you
two is the most important.
I think you should do it.
What?
I think you should, too.
I mean, if people knew why you wrote
it, maybe they'd try
answering prayers, too.
You'd be telling the truth.
And if that helps even just
one person look up from
themselves this Christmas,
that feels worth it.
Are you guys sure?
Yes. Especially if we can help others.
Okay.
Okay. I'll go ahead and
call her later, then.
Thank you.
All right.
So,
who's next on the prayer list?
Drew, the barista at the coffee shop.
I see him studying all the
time, and I know he works so
hard, and he always
gives me extra sprinkles.
I want to make him feel
special this season.
I don't think he has
anyone looking after him.
Hey, I'll be right there.
Sure.
Bridget.
- Hi.
Hi. It's Natalie Sands,
the author of Adeline the Angel.
So, I was giving your
offer some thought, and...
Do you have some time to meet?
Hey, what can I get you?
Can we get three hot chocolates to
go, please?
Extra sprinkles?
Yes, please.
I need three hot chocolates.
One extra sprinkles.
So, what are you studying?
Um.
Social work.
But this year's been pretty rough.
I mean, working and going to
school full time, trying to
balance it all.
It's been a lot.
I, got a final tomorrow.
Well, hang in there.
Thanks. I just...
My goal is to work with kids,
make sure no one feels left behind.
That's a good calling.
Thank you.
Hey. Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
And good luck on your final.
Thanks.
Thanks so much.
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
You forgot your present.
Hey.
Hey, Drew.
The usual.
Yeah. Thanks.
Of course.
This one's on the house today.
Thanks, Drew.
Merry Christmas.
So, tell me about the
inspiration for this book.
Yeah.
So, um, so last year,
I was feeling really lost, and, um, I
happened to find this
little girl's prayer list.
Prayer list?
Like a a Christmas list full
of things for other people.
Things she wanted for
them, and not for herself.
You know, it kind of sparked
something inside of me.
And I wondered maybe I
could answer these prayers.
Why?
You know, I don't know.
It kind of felt called to it, like...
You know, and the more I kept doing it,
the more inspired I was and
felt inspired to write about it.
And that's how Adeline the Angel was born.
Did you know this little girl?
No. It turns out that she
happened to live in my neighborhood.
The whole thing actually felt
like it was very set up by God.
But couldn't that just be a coincidence?
I mean, yeah, sure.
But I didn't think it was.
I felt like God was leading me
on a path that I was meant to be.
Feels a bit far-fetched, no?
I don't think so.
You know, God,
God is always working behind
the scenes in our lives.
You just have to be open to receive it.
So this book is selling well?
Yeah.
You're not keeping up with the numbers.
Most authors I speak to
are glued to their stats.
I choose to focus on the message, on
sharing the Word of God,
especially this time of year.
So you don't want people to buy your book?
No, I.
Of course.
Of course I want people to buy my book.
You know, I, I just, um...
Are you a believer?
I was, when I was younger.
What changed?
If you don't mind me asking.
I don't know.
I think life just got busy.
Hey. It's a nice idea in theory,
that there's some higher being
out there that cares about you,
and who's looking out for you.
But I just,
it just seems so far-fetched.
Why?
Because, how can you prove it?
I don't think you can.
Not the way that you're talking about.
But I don't think that's the point.
I don't think faith is
something you can prove.
I think it's something you notice.
You know, those moments you
can't quite make sense of
when you put them on paper.
Or the ones you could maybe try
and explain away if you had the chance.
You know, chalk it up to coincidence.
But every once in a while,
something lines up in a way that feels.
Personal.
Like it wasn't random,
you know, like you were saying
like someone is looking out for
you, they care about you.
They know exactly what you need.
And I think at that point,
you decide whether you're willing
to believe that means something.
And if it doesn't?
Faith.
Faith gives me a reason to keep doing it,
even when it's inconvenient.
Because I choose to believe
that there is someone out there
who loves us more than
we could ever imagine.
And sharing that message means
more to me than any books he'll
ever could.
Well, thanks for this.
Um, it was very
unexpected. Um, the story will
go live the day of your book party launch.
Thanks again for your time.
Okay, so we've knocked off a
few, but we still have a long
way to go.
Okay. Make sure you eat your breakfast.
I will, I just want to make sure
that we don't forget anyone.
I don't want to let God down.
Honey, we talked about this.
I know, I just,
I think we can be doing more.
Maybe we split up.
I'll give this page to Miss Katie.
This page to pops.
Hey, Caroline.
Take a breath.
I don't have time to breathe, dad.
We have prayers to answer.
She keeps saying she doesn't
want to let God down,
and I keep telling her that she
doesn't have to do everything perfectly.
But I don't know if I'm
saying the right thing.
I don't want to mess this up.
You're not messing everything up.
You're showing up.
You're a good support for her.
Faith isn't about shielding
our kids from disappointment.
It's about showing them
what to do when it comes.
God doesn't just disappear when
things don't go the way they hoped.
You got an opportunity here,
to teach Caroline that sometimes
we can get in our own way,
following our own desires, and
that's not in alignment
with what God wants for us.
When that happens, we have to
step back, get quiet, and recenter.
Yeah, I hear you, dad.
But I'm also planning to
propose to Natalie this Christmas.
Well, son, that is so exciting.
I'm thrilled for you, and for Caroline.
To love, to faith and to
not doing any of this alone.
What?
It's your tree.
You can do whatever you want.
Right..
Mhm.
Yeah. Much better.
So, I spoke with that
journalist this morning.
How'd it go?
I don't know.
I, I think I might have tried
too hard to explain everything
instead of just telling the story.
I think it might have come across like.
I was trying to convince her of something.
Now I just keep playing it
over and over in my head,
thinking I made it worse.
Worse how?
Like I talked her out of it.
Like I made
faith seem heavy, instead of hopeful.
I was just trying to get
the heart of my message
out there, but...
I feel like I might
have made things worse.
I don't know what she's gonna write.
I'm sure you did great.
Maybe I could call her, try and explain.
Hey.
- Or I could speak
with a new journalist to try again.
Is that really what you want to do?
No.
I have something for you.
You don't have to wait for Christmas.
I know you do your best
thinking when you write, so.
I felt that maybe this
would help right now.
Yeah.
Thank you.
Yeah. I love you.
I love you, too.
It's all gonna work out.
Just gotta have faith.
Yeah.
Dear Natalie.
I hope it's okay that I
wrote in your journal first.
I love having you in my life,
and I know my dad does, too.
Merry Christmas.
Love, Caroline.
Come in.
Hey, what's going on here?
We are going to answer some prayers.
Can you guys help me pack
up a couple boxes for Hank?
His daughter and his grandsons
are gonna be here any day, and
he needs some Christmas decorations.
Come on.
Sure.
You can take that.
Now, if you could put those in
the box for me, that would be great.
In the box?
Yeah.
Right there.
That box right down there.
Okay.
He's here.
Hey, you guys.
What's all this?
So I was cleaning out my
Christmas closet and happened
to have a few extra decorations.
I wanted to see if they
could be of some use for you.
Are you sure?
Yes. I have so many Christmas decorations.
Seriously,
you would be doing me a huge favor.
Well. Thank you.
How many houses do you
have left on your route?
I'm nearly done.
We could come by your place
when you've done your shift, if
you'd like.
Wonderful. Thank you.
Next time, maybe we could roast
some marshmallows instead of
putting them all in your hot cocoa.
I like them in the hot cocoa.
It's Chris.
Sorry.
Hey.
Chris.
We have a situation.
What kind of situation?
We just got a call from a
journalist asking for a comment.
Now, they didn't give us much,
but whatever article they're
going to be running, it is very off brand.
I can explain.
It's a little too late for that.
This is not good.
Let's just say a prayer that
whatever article that they run,
it doesn't blow everything up.
The article goes live in two days,
so let's just talk then
and assess the damage.
Okay.
Come on.
Pick up, pick up, pick up.
Hi, it's Bridget.
Please leave a message.
What is it?
Are you okay?
I shouldn't have talked
to that journalist.
You couldn't have said anything that bad.
Well, whatever I said,
it was enough to make the publisher
very unhappy.
Well, you'll just have to wait
until the article goes live.
It's in God's hands.
Hey, you know what you need?
The time machine.
So I can redo that interview.
Something to get you out of your head.
What's left on Caroline's prayer list?
Let's see.
We got a wreath for the coffee shop.
A gift for Drew.
We took those Christmas
decorations to Hank today.
Church got some new candles,
so that leaves a few things...
Help Miss Hannah get ready for the baby.
That's such a fun one.
You know, Caroline was right.
I have been so focused on
myself and on this book and how
it will be received,
when I should be focused on Him,
and giving back.
I love that she brought back
the prayer list this year.
We should make it a tradition.
I would love that.
Hey, where are you going?
We are going to get you out of
your rut by doing what Jesus
taught us to do.
Love others.
Come on, let's go answer a prayer.
Hi?
We thought you could use a
little celebrating before the
baby comes.
Guys.
And from Natalie.
May God's Word be a lamp to
your feet and a light to your path.
May you always remember that
you are beautifully, perfectly
holy made.
I can't thank you all
enough for showing up today.
We're happy to do it.
We've been there.
I think I've spent so much time
trying to be a good villager,
I forgot I needed a village.
Thank you for being in my village.
This baby is very lucky.
We're so lucky.
And you don't have to do it alone.
Community is the key.
And it's a good reminder for the season.
For all seasons.
I remember being so nervous
when I was in your shoes.
You got any tips?
Well.
Brr.
Hey.
Good timing.
I thought you were a bad guy.
Nope. Just a guy who was bad at cooking.
Well, doesn't look like it to me.
What made you decide to do all of this?
I wanted to do something
special for you tonight.
No book stuff, no answering prayers.
Just us.
You know, Natalie, I've been thinking.
And.
Can you try the sauce for me?
I feel like it might
need some more oregano.
Yes.
Look at all this.
The guys were great.
You know, gave me a lot to think about.
I'm so glad you're leaning
into that relationship with them.
Me, too.
It's been a long time since
I've let myself have time for friends.
Well, community is key.
It is.
And since I've met you,
I've found my community growing
in ways I couldn't have imagined.
Did you hear that?
Hear what?
That music.
There's no music.
Yeah. There is.
Will you dance with me?
What? Now, that wasn't music.
Come on.
Okay.
Thanks for making me feel like
I have a place where I belong.
You make it easy.
You know,
you and I,
we make a pretty great team.
And.
Have I told you lately
you're my dream woman?
Well, that might be
the most romantic thing
you've ever said to me.
I love you.
I love you, too.
Can't wait for tomorrow.
Me, too.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Okay. Before you tell me not
to make a big deal out of this.
I made you something.
You didn't have to do that.
And you didn't have to clean my shower.
So, we're even.
There's a place to write down
prayers, notice needs, and take
small steps to love
people well all year long.
Hannah.
They're inspired by Adeline, and by you,
but mostly by Caroline.
I thought it could be a good
way to help people keep their
own prayer lists.
Notice people do something
about it when they can.
Community,
which was a prayer I've had for you,
so you wouldn't feel like the
weight of the world or the
church or Christmas
or others is all on your shoulders.
You show up for this
community all the time.
We want to show up for you, too.
Thank you.
Learn to have a village,
and not just be a villager.
Well, in the spirit of being a villager,
can I talk to you about something?
Anything. Always.
So I did call that journalist.
How did it go?
In the moment?
It was,
it was really good.
But then after she left, I...
It felt like I over shared
like I was trying too hard to
compensate for something.
And then she called the
publisher asking for a quote.
And then they called me because
they didn't like the direction
she was taking the article.
And now, I just...
I can't stop freaking out
thinking that I've basically
ruined everything.
Natalie, one bad article isn't
going to make or break you, or
your literary career.
If that journalist didn't like your
story, ride it out.
The media cycle is so quick.
The article will be old
news in a couple of days.
Pun intended.
Hey, you have worked so
hard for this moment.
Don't let anyone take that away from you.
Thank you for being my friend.
Girl. Easy.
What would I do without you?
What would I do without you?
Thank you.
All right, let's put these in.
Yes. So if we maybe do this one.
Yeah, I love that.
Hey, kiddo.
Can I run something by you?
What's up?
Since your mom passed,
it's just been me and
you against the world.
And we've done everything together.
And I really feel like you are
the greatest gift I've ever
been given.
You're being really sappy, dad.
I know, I know.
Um. What I'm saying is,
it's just been us,
until Natalie came along.
And she made you smile again.
And she made me smile again.
And then it was the two
of you against the world.
And I've just been trying to keep up.
And I've been thinking about us,
about our family, our future.
And.
I was wondering how you'd feel if,
if I asked her to marry me?
I think that'd be a really good idea.
You do?
I think she makes us both really happy.
You have my blessing.
But, only if you can promise one thing.
Name it.
That we still do pizza night
and that she still sits with me
during church.
Deal.
I love you, kiddo.
I love you, dad.
I hope she says yes.
Me too.
I am going to throw that
thing out the window
if you check that news site one more time.
I just don't know why the
article hasn't gone live yet.
Maybe it's a blessing in disguise.
Come on, let's go enjoy ourselves.
Trying to find the nuclear launch codes?
Something like that.
Actually, there's something
I've been meaning to talk to
you about.
I've loved helping you at the firm.
You've become one of my best friends.
But I feel like I'm being
called to do something else.
To go back to teaching.
I didn't know that was
something you were considering.
It wasn't until I ran into
Caroline's teacher, and she
told me the school needed substitutes.
Yeah, it's been on my heart ever since.
Well, then I think you
should listen to that.
As long as you're still going
to be around to help me plan
the firm Christmas party.
I couldn't do that without you.
Deal.
Hello, everyone.
Um, first of all,
thank you so much for being here today.
It it truly means the world
to me having you all here.
This book was inspired by each of you.
Now, it might be my name on the
cover, but it doesn't belong to
myself alone.
It came from this town.
From showing up for each
other, from noticing,
from choosing service.
Even when it is easier to be comfortable.
It came
from a beautiful friend of mine
who helped me remember to
slow down this time of year,
and be in community with others.
Now, before I begin the
reading, could you all do me a
favor and join hands with
the person next to you?
Thank you.
Lord. We are so grateful for
this wonderful community, for
the ways that you show up
through small acts of service,
through open hearts,
and through people who are willing
to serve.
Help us to keep our focus on
others, not just this time of
the year, but throughout the entire year.
Help us to carry your message
beyond the lights, the music,
and the gifts.
We are so thankful for the
greatest gift of all, your son.
In His name we pray.
Amen.
Amen.
My gosh,
I think I'm in labor.
Yeah. Definitely in labor.
Okay.
I just got off the phone with Stephen.
Hannah is doing great,
but he's going to keep us updated
throughout the night.
Have you guys seen Wes?
No.
Not me.
No.
Miss Jenkins,
you haven't seen Wes, have you?
No. Sorry.
Hey, this is Wes.
Leave a message.
Natalie
Bridget. Hi.
Thank you so much for coming.
Thank you for the invite.
And thank you for the beautiful
article, for not shying away
from the heart of it, from Jesus.
I meant every word.
So will there be a sequel?
I don't know.
I, I guess it would have to feel right.
Like this one did.
Can I ask you something?
Mhm.
If the commercial side of all
this makes you uneasy, would
you ever consider something else?
Like what?
A charity?
Something that lives beyond a book.
A way to spread the word through action.
I hadn't thought of that.
I'll have to pray on it. Thank you.
I really hope to see you again.
You know,
I usually attend the 11:00 service.
Eighth pew on the left, just in case.
I'll remember that.
There you are.
Where did you disappear to?
I just had to take care of something.
Something like what?
Just stuff.
No big deal.
It kind of is.
I've been looking for you everywhere.
I know, I just had to do a thing.
What kind of a thing?
You know, you have been
doing this a lot lately.
You've been dodging and disappearing
and, and acting
like you're somewhere else,
even when you're standing right
in front of me.
That's not true.
Well, then help me understand,
because right now, it feels
like you're keeping
something from me, Wes.
What's going on with you?
I just wanted to celebrate
with you tonight.
I know.
I just didn't expect to...
Look.
I'm sorry.
It's getting late.
I'll see you at church.
Here they come.
Miss Katie.
You two.
Hi.
Do you have a moment?
Of course.
So one year ago,
I put on my prayer list that I prayed for
my dad to be happy again.
And since he met Natalie, that happened.
He's never been as happy as he is now.
So we were gonna ask you if it's okay if,
Miss Sands, I would love for
your permission to ask for your
granddaughter's hand in marriage.
Wes, Caroline.
You two are such a gift.
Hey, guys.
What's everyone doing?
Nothing.
Just talking.
Yep. Talking.
Mhm.
Okay. Well, should we take a seat?
The service is about to start.
Yeah. Mhm.
Of course.
I'll give you my blessing.
Thank you.
Born to you this day in the
city of David, a savior.
Who is Christ the Lord.
And this will be the sign to you.
You will find a babe wrapped in
swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.
And suddenly there was with
the angel a multitude of the
heavenly host, praising God and
saying, Glory to God in the
highest, and on earth
peace, Goodwill toward men.
Natalie.
Hey.
Hi.
That was a beautiful service.
I'm really glad you came.
Me, too.
I'll see you next week.
Eighth pew on the left.
Right?
Yeah.
Thank you.
Hello?
Natalie. Hi.
I am so sorry to call you on
Christmas Eve, but that article.
Bridget Garner's piece about
the origin of the book,
Carolyn's Faith,
Bridget's follow up about the prayer
cards at the launch and the
potential for a charity.
Well, we've been getting
a lot of inquiries.
And the message
it's done more for the book
than our marketing ever could have.
I should have trusted your vision.
Gone with what was authentic to you.
Your message.
Well.
It wasn't my message.
It was the message of Jesus.
And I understand that you were
just trying to reach a broader audience.
Well, everyone here agrees that
we want to follow your vision
from start to finish for the sequel.
That is, if you'll, you'll have us.
I'm sorry.
Yes. Thank you.
Um,
is it okay if I give it some
thought and call you after Christmas?
Of course.
And Natalie,
Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas.
Is everything okay?
I just got offered a sequel.
Congratulations!
Thank you.
Tom, does your firm have any
experience in nonprofits?
Do we have any experience?
Natalie. Are you kidding me?
We almost live there.
I'm thinking I want to start a nonprofit.
Adeline's acts.
You know, if I'm going to do this again.
I want it to be bigger than just a book.
I want to give back.
For real.
Do you think your firm
could help me with that?
Of course.
We'd be happy to.
Have you guys seen Wes?
No, no, no, I haven't seen him.
This is for you.
What's this?
Just read it.
Let's just go home and make some pizza.
Yeah. Let's go.
We'll see you there.
For Caroline to feel
supported in her journey.
For my dad to trust that his
work matters and to not feel
the need to prove himself.
For Katie to remember who she
was before she started putting
everyone else first,
even though she's been very helpful
to my father.
And to find joy for herself again.
For Natalie to have a
successful book launch, and
realize she doesn't have to
do everything on her own.
What's this?
My prayer list.
I had some things weighing on my
heart, and I figured.
God might have had
something to do with them.
So I took a page out of
Caroline's playbook and
prayed about them.
I'm sorry I've been so
distant and distracted.
Wes, I'm sorry for the
things that I've said.
It was warranted.
I haven't been honest with you.
Since I first met you,
I've known you were different.
The way you move through
the world is unlike anyone
I've ever met.
And when we started dating,
I felt like everything
about my life just clicked.
You've changed me for the
better in so many ways and
given me a community I
didn't realize I needed.
And I've been given a lot
of thought about that.
But what that means for me, for Caroline.
And I realized
every future I envision for us,
includes you.
I don't want to do any
of this without you.
I love you so much.
So, Natalie Sands.
Will you marry me?
Yeah.
Absolutely. Yes.
I love you.
I love you.
Did she say yes?
She did.
I'm so glad, I love you, Natalie.
I love you, too, Caroline.
Do you know what was on the
last page of my prayer list?
I've been praying for this all year.
Awesome.