The story of Christmas didn't start in Bethlehem. The season 2 finale of Too Long; Didn't Read takes you on a mind-bending trip way... way... way back.

Read the story for yourself in John 1.

Die Hard is a kid's movie compared to this. 

Read the story for yourself in Matthew 2:13-18

They weren't kings. There weren't three of them. And they definitely didn't visit an infant in a manger. Time for the magi to take the spotlight. 

Read their story for yourself in Matthew 2:1-12

It's time for Joseph's side of the story. 

Read it for yourself in Matthew 1:1-24

Nothing shakes up a quiet night of shepherding like being interrupted by an angel choir. The birth of Jesus is announced in an unlikely fashion to an unlikely audience. 

Read about the story yourself in Luke 2:8-20.

Well... not a barn... not exactly. 

Eric and Mae talk through the first of two nativity narratives recorded in the Bible. Read the story for yourself in Luke 2:1-7.

The Christmas story starts with an angel... who has some big news for a tween. 

Read the story yourself in Luke 1:5-67.

It's a Christmas miracle... Too Long; Didn't Read is back! 

Join hosts Eric and Mae as they dissect and discuss the Christmas story as recorded in the Bible. Your grandma's nativity set? It's all wrong. 

First full episode drops December 4th.

Mae shares a new Crossroads podcast she's excited about, her love for Arrested Development, and a secret about Too Long; Didn't Read.

Follow Mae's lead and subscribe to Spirit Stories, a new storytelling podcast where everyday people share their close encounters with the spiritual.

An extended teaser—and your first spirit story—is already available. Hit the subscribe button to be the first to hear these incredible stories.