If Jesus Came to My House

by Joan Gale Thomas

First published in the US in 1951 by Lothrop & Lee, New York. A little boy imagines what it would be like if Jesus came to spend the afternoon with him -- the little boy Jesus, of course, "about the age that I am and about the size of me." It is easy to see why this friendly little book has been so popular. It offers the Golden Rule in concepts easily grasped by small children and indirectly suggests some ways to carry them out. "I still can share with Jesus the nicest of my toys by lending them or giving them to poorer girls and boys.
And though He may not visit me as I have wished He would, yet even so He'll bless my house if I am kind and good."

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Christian, Faith, Fiction, Kids, Read For School

24 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1941

About the author

Also published as Joan G. Robinson

Reviews

[David Dunlap]

Being able to re-read this book after so long a time was indeed a trip down memory lane for me, as I owned --and treasured -- this volume when a boy... In simple verse, a young boy imagines what it might be like, were the boy Jesus to come to his house to visit -- the things they would do and share. Then the boy reflects on how he can do the same things for others, as a way of showing the same love for Jesus he was able to express during the visit. -- This edition of the book (a reprint of the first edition) is enhanced by simple but delightful illustrations. Highly recommended for readers of ALL ages!

[Mary Lu]

I loved this book as a child. I believed Jesus was my friend. I always have. However the sexism, racism and bigotry illustrated in this book would never allow me to read it to a child today. I would use it in a classroom to show students how subtle racism is in older literature.
If the publisher would update with inclusivity and republish I would buy the book. The reader here may think I’m being too politically correct. However, words and images carry meaning into hearts. This does not show the love for all that I believe the writer intended.

[Nancy]

I have a hard time with this type of book - I can be cynical, which disturbs me. However, this is a lovely little story about living a Christlike life - being kind and gentle and generous every day. Neither the text or illustrations felt sappy, as so often happens with this type of book.

[Kerry]

This is a sweet, but not overly so, children's book with a solid lesson. We can do for others that which we would like to do for Jesus himself.

[Cheryl Neer]

Sweet story!

[Kimberly]

Beautiful pictures and words

[Monica]

sweet imagining of welcoming Jesus
used at Chapel Time

[Julia]

If I could add more stars I would! This book is a treasure! It is written in the form of a sweet little rhyme in the first person. The child imagines what it would be like if Jesus came to his house. He talks about sharing his best toys with Jesus, showing him his favorite little nooks in the house, showing him the garden, etc. It finishes by saying that while Jesus can't come to our house, we can go to His house to pray and worship. We can share and give to others like we would for Jesus if He were at our house. Sweet, simple illustrations, beautifully written.

[Vanessa Cooper]

Another children's favourite.

Well, when I say children's, I really mean mine! There is so much about this book I like; the fact it is written as a poem, the message it has and, for me personally, the reminder it delivers.

What would I do if Jesus actually came to my house? Makes you think doesn't it?

A lovely book to read to your children with a theme of kindness and sharing running throughout and that's a lesson you're never too young (or old!) to learn or be reminded of whether you believe in our Lord Jesus or not.

[Terry]

This is a nice choice when you want a book that helps kids understand that being a Christian is part of who you are and the choices you make. Although the narrator is a boy, girls will also appreciate the story and its lessons.

To read our full review, go to the Reading Tub.

[Dawn]

I received this book when I was a child almost 50 years ago and loved it! It is such a sweet story and helped me as a little girl understand how to treat others in a way that was very much at my level of learning. I gave it to my daughter and she will pass it on to her children. It is currently on display in her living room.

[Kate Hastings]

What a boy would do if Jesus came to his house, and how he can prepare to share his house with family and friends the same way Jesus shared what he had with others. Rhymes are a little forced at times, making it a little awkward to read, but the message is good.

[Amanda]

Nice verse and teaches that while Jesus can't be with us everyday, we can be like Him in helping others. I think this is useful for a preschooler's point of view since my son has said on occasion he wants to talk to or see Jesus.

[Jane Riebe-Tritten]

This book is the ultimate. I love love love it. I had this book memorized when I was a kid, and even after many years I still can recite parts of it. I don't have my copy anymore, but I'm always on a look out for another 1951 publication. I recommend this to everyone, young and old.

[Emily Herron]

A great book for young readers. My mother was given this book as a child and fell in love with it. She later went out of her way to find it for me and I loved it as well. I think it imparts a very good message that Christianity isn't about winning favor with Christ it's about doing good for others.

[Leila]

A must-read. Beautiful poetry and timeless truth.

[Elise]

Awesome message and a good way to start a conversation with kids about love and kindness. Also, lovely illustrations.

[PB]

It's amazing how much you can get from a story so simple.. I enjoyed it so much!!! :) EXCELLENT!

[The Hofs]

LOVE this book. Adorable drawings and rhyming stanzas that have a message without being too saccharine.

[Clare]

A beautiful, imaginative and simply illustrated story which invites children to get to know the child Jesus. www.GoodReadingGuide.com

[Olson Family Matters]

Cute story - but I think I prefer straight Bible books for Madelyn.

[Linda]

This is a dear book from my childhood.

[Beverly]

Sweet poem-story that will comfort young children. Very nice illustrations.

[Lisa]

This was my favorite book as a young girl! I was born in 1961 so I have owned this book for many years and still love it.

[Hugs]

OH how I wish the version with these older illustrations would be re-released!!!!!!

[Robyn]

So sweet! I always liked this book since I was little.

[David Hartnett]

The first book I read by myself. I still have it and reread it often

[Peter]

It is fine for what it is. My answer would be restraining order.