Jacob is one of the shepherds tending their sheep near Bethlehem. But the other shepherds exclude him: he’s too small and, in their eyes, completely useless. Jacob finds comfort only with his animals — and with his treasure, a candle he uses to create wonderful shadow figures.

Everything changes, when an angel appears to the shepherds, announcing the birth of Jesus Christ. Jacob immediately sets off with the others to find the child. Upon arriving at the stable, the shepherds are ashamed to realize they have no gift to offer the newborn. But Jacob selflessly gives away his greatest treasure, his candle, as a gift from all the shepherds.