Series: Waiting for God Knows What
Text: Isaiah 61:10 and Luke 1:46-55
Topic: Waiting With Love
Questions to discuss:
SCRIPTURE
Have a conversation with your group about Mary’s situation (lower class, family struggling, promised to Joseph and now pregnant). Talk about what those circumstances probably created in her little town. Think about other Scripture passages and share how people in the Bible chose joy in difficult situations (i.e. Paul in a dirty Roman prison).
ACCOUNTABILITY
Early in her pregnancy, Mary speaks what is known as Mary’s Song of Praise: The Magnificat (our verses in Luke). Throughout these words it is clear Mary is experiencing true joy, not feigned or manufactured. Joy is a decision of profound faith and hope. Have you ever known someone who had joy in the midst of darkness? Share that story.
TRANSFORMATION
“When you realize Jesus’ love has overcome death itself, joy becomes reasonable even in the darkest circumstances.” (The Bible Project)
The challenges of 2020 have provided many opportunities for us to choose joy. Considering Mary’s situation (as well as the other examples you found in Scripture), what does that look like for you? What circumstances did you give in to fear and anxiety and what circumstances did God give you the strength to find His Joy?
