After the loss of the family farm, the Thompsons head west for a fresh start. John’s struggle to provide for his family is bolstered by the childlike faith of his young son who, despite his new environment, inspires everyone he meets to consider the true meaning of Christmas. After a mysterious stagecoach rider visits in the dark hours of Christmas Eve, even John must believe that his troubles are temporary, and miracles do happen on Christmas.

Five missionaries went into the land of the savage Aucas. Their offer of friendship was rejected, and the Aucas killed the missionaries. Elisabeth Elliot, wife of one of the martyrs, her daughter, and Rachel Saint would not give up and eventually lived among and brought the Gospel to the Aucas.