Introduction
God’s love comes alive through His messengers – angels, prophets, and even ordinary people – who shared the news of Jesus’ birth. But this message isn’t just for them; it’s for everyone. During this Advent series, we’ll find how God invites us to step out in faith and obedience as a messenger of hope in a world that needs it. In week two, Pastor Chip shared the story of Jesus’ mom, Mary - and how her response to God’s plans provides a model of obedience for us.
Discussion
1. Revisit and read Luke 1:26-33. What stands out to you about Gabriel’s message to Mary? Imagine the angel Gabriel came to you with this message. How do you think you’d respond in the moment?
2. Revisit and read Luke 1:34-38. How does Mary’s response in verse 38 display trust, humility, and surrender? What does her response teach us about faith and obedience?
3. Revisit and read Luke 1:46-55 (known as the Magnificat). Mary’s song of praise focuses on how good and powerful God is - similar to how we often worship God through song. Is worship or praise a part of your typical conversations or responses with God? If so, share what this typically looks like for you. What kind of impact do you think this practice may/does have and what’s likely to get in the way?
4. If we were to keep going in the story, we’d see that everything comes to pass as Gabriel said it would. When we find ourselves in situations with unanswered questions, uncertainty, or even judgement, how can Mary’s story help remind us of how we can trust God’s plan for our lives – even when they interrupt our own?
5. Spend a few minutes in prayer with each of the application points below to wrap up.
Application
Talk about what’s happening in your life right now. Share how God may be moving, directing, or prompting you in this season. Then pray about these items through the points below.
- Speak Faith. When facing uncertainty, trust in God's character and his promises.
- Pray: "God, I trust that your plans are good, even when I don’t see the full picture."
- Speak Humility. Submit your plans to God with a posture of surrender
- Pray: "God, not my will, but yours be done.”
- Speak Praise. Worship God for His faithfulness, even in difficult circumstances.Pray: "God, you are holy, merciful, and good. I glorify and thank you today."