The Fourth Sunday of Advent: Luke 2:1-20

We draw into Luke's Gospel where we see a story filled with unexpected characters chosen as the first recipients of the good news. How does Jesus’ arrival challenge what the world sees as power and influence? What fears might God be inviting you to release as you remember that God is with us? We celebrate Christ, the Savior and Lord.

Scripture Reading: Luke 2:1-20, John 1:9-14 (second reading, Children’s ministry)

Reflect together:

• Consider the difficult realities surrounding Jesus’ birth: the Roman census, traveling while pregnant and giving birth in a manger. How might these realities help shift the way I endure challenging circumstances in my life? What might the Spirit be birthing in my story?

• All who heard the Shepherds were amazed, but Mary held these things close to her heart and considered them seriously. This advent season, what is the Spirit inviting you to treasure and ponder?

• In what ways has ‘God with us’ been good news and brought great joy in your story? In what ways can your presence, speech and actions embody and extend that same joy to others?

• The angels opened the announcement with "Do not be afraid." What fears or anxieties might God be inviting you to surrender?

Our songs together:

• Peace Has Come - Hillsong

• Joyful Joyful

• All Glory Be To Christ

• Go Tell It On The Mountain