In the Gospel of Luke, there is the story of the angel Gabriel announcing to Mary that she will bear Jesus. Also, the journey to Bethlehem for the census and Jesus being born in a manger. In Matthew, there is the account of the Magi following the star to find the newborn King.
Maybe there's a hard - working shopkeeper. In a Christmas story, this person could be selling all the Christmas goodies and interacting with different customers. There could also be an angel - like figure, which is quite common in Christmas stories, who might be guiding or helping the other characters to experience the true meaning of Christmas.
One main theme could be the spirit of giving. Christmas is often associated with giving presents, and the stories might revolve around characters who give selflessly. Another theme could be family. Christmas is a time when families come together, and the stories may show different family dynamics, like reconciliations or the importance of family traditions.
Since I'm not familiar with the 'Simple Gifts' book, I can't provide the four stories directly. However, typical heartwarming Christmas stories could be about a lonely person finding a new family on Christmas, a community coming together to help a needy family, or a child learning the true meaning of Christmas through an unexpected event.
In these stories, Johnny Storm often shines. His flamboyant personality and ability to create heat and fly make for some exciting Christmas - themed rescues or displays. For example, he could use his powers to light up a huge Christmas tree in a spectacular way.
The stories in 'Simple Gifts' can inspire by showing the importance of kindness. When we read about characters being kind during Christmas, it makes us want to do the same.
Luke's gospel emphasizes the poor and humble beginnings with shepherds being the first to visit Jesus. Matthew focuses on the Magi and the political implications with Herod. Mark and John don't have the traditional birth narratives like Luke and Matthew.
One memorable plot could be the Fantastic Four saving Christmas in New York. Maybe they stop some villains from stealing all the presents. Another might be them bringing Christmas cheer to a small town that's been hit by a disaster.