30/11 Advent 1: Mary’s Response to God’s Call

1)      What’s the most surprising thing God has ever said to you in your life?  How did you respond?

Read Luke 1:26–56

2)      What stands out to you about Gabriel’s greeting to Mary?

3)      How does Mary initially respond, emotionally and verbally, to Gabriel’s message?

4)      Why do you think God chose Mary - an ordinary young woman from Nazareth - for such an extraordinary role?

5)      What do you notice about the way Gabriel explains God’s plan? Is anything surprising or challenging?

6)      Mary ultimately says, “I am the Lord’s servant…may it be to me according to your word.” What does this  - and her song in vs 46-56 - reveal about her character and faith? What might it look like for us to respond similarly, in our lives?

7)      Why might Mary have hurried to see Elizabeth after the angel’s visit?

8)      What happens when Mary greets Elizabeth? What does Elizabeth’s Spirit-filled response tell us about God’s confirmation and encouragement?

9)      How does this moment show the importance of Christian community?

10)  When has God used another believer to confirm something in your life or encourage you in faith?

11)  How can we be like Elizabeth - encouragers attentive to the Spirit?  Pray that we would all grow in this and that we can respond to God’s call like Mary.