I love this story,
The Christmas Knight, by Jane Louise Curry. Sir Cleges is a merry knight, who loves to open his castle to all and to feast with his poorer neighbors during the Christmas season. But when he falls upon difficult times, his neighbors forget about him. After Sir Cleges offers a prayer of humility, a miraculous gift allows him to make a wonderful offering to King Uther. In return, King Uther grants Sir Cleges the title of "Christmas Knight."
I am sad to say today's book is out of print, although it can be found at used bookstores (you know about the fabulous website at
ABE Books, right?), and I bet you will be able to find it at your public library.