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Behind the Story - Women of the Story Pt.1
Sermon Summary
In tonight's sermon, Toby highlights Mary's journey as a key figure in God's plan, emphasizing her gifts, the importance of community support, and her purpose of obedience and trust in God, encouraging us to reflect on our own roles in God's story this Christmas season.
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As we approach the Christmas season, it's easy to become overwhelmed with the logistics of holiday planning. However, it's also a time to reflect on the profound story of Jesus' birth and the pivotal role Mary played in it. At the heart of this narrative is the concept of receiving and responding to God's gifts, as exemplified by Mary. When the angel Gabriel visited Mary, she was a young teenager, engaged to Joseph, and living an ordinary life. Yet, she was chosen to bear the Messiah, a gift that came with immense responsibility and divine favor. Her initial fear and confusion were met with reassurance from the angel, who explained that the Holy Spirit would enable this miraculous conception. Mary's response, "I am the Lord's servant," highlights her willingness to embrace God's plan despite the uncertainties.
Mary's journey was not just about the physical travel to Bethlehem but also her spiritual journey of faith and obedience. She sought community and support from her relative Elizabeth, who confirmed the angel's message and encouraged her. This highlights the importance of surrounding ourselves with godly influences who can guide and support us in our spiritual walk. Mary's journey also involved a significant shift in her life plans, reminding us that God's plans may require us to pivot and trust in His guidance.
Mary's purpose extended beyond giving birth to Jesus; it was about her obedience and trust in God. Her willingness to embrace her role in God's plan is a testament to her character and faith. We, too, are called to trust and obey God, even when we don't have all the answers. Like Mary, we can find joy and fulfillment in reflecting on God's victories and promises in our lives.
As we celebrate Christmas, let's not just focus on the festivities but take time to reflect on the deeper meaning of the season. We are all part of God's plan, and like Mary, we have a purpose to fulfill. Let's seek God's guidance, embrace the gifts He has given us, and walk in obedience to His calling.
Key Takeaways
1. Embracing God's Gifts: Mary received the gift of the Messiah and the Holy Spirit, which required her to trust in God's plan. We, too, are offered the gift of Jesus and the Holy Spirit, inviting us to participate in God's redemptive work. Embracing these gifts means accepting the responsibility and joy that come with them. [31:32]
2. The Importance of Community: Mary's visit to Elizabeth underscores the value of seeking support and wisdom from godly influences. In times of uncertainty, surrounding ourselves with mentors and spiritual family can provide guidance and encouragement. This community helps us grow in faith and navigate life's challenges. [35:59]
3. Trusting in God's Plan: Mary's journey required her to pivot from her original plans and trust in God's direction. Similarly, we may face unexpected changes in our lives, but trusting in God's plan can lead to greater fulfillment and purpose. It's about being open to holy interruptions and allowing God to guide us. [40:27]
4. Obedience and Faith: Mary's obedience to God's call, despite not having all the answers, is a powerful example of faith. We are called to trust in God's promises and follow His guidance, knowing that He will be with us every step of the way. This obedience is not blind faith but a confident trust in God's faithfulness. [44:48]
5. Reflecting on God's Victories: Mary treasured and pondered the events surrounding Jesus' birth, finding joy in God's fulfilled promises. We are encouraged to reflect on God's victories in our lives, celebrating His goodness and faithfulness. This reflection helps us recognize our purpose and the blessings God has given us. [46:51]
Daily Hope Devotionals
Day 1: Embracing Divine Gifts with Responsibility
Scripture:
Luke 1:38
'“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. '
https://www.bible.com/bible/11...
Devotional:
Mary's acceptance of the gift of the Messiah and the Holy Spirit was not just a passive reception but an active engagement with God's plan. She was a young woman living an ordinary life when she was chosen for an extraordinary purpose. Her initial fear and confusion were met with divine reassurance, and her response, "I am the Lord's servant," exemplifies her willingness to embrace the responsibility that came with this divine gift. This teaches us that receiving God's gifts involves both joy and responsibility, inviting us to participate in His redemptive work. We are called to embrace the gifts of Jesus and the Holy Spirit, understanding that they come with a call to action and a commitment to God's purpose. [31:32]
Reflection:
What is a gift or talent you believe God has given you, and how can you actively use it to serve others and fulfill His purpose today?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You with a grateful heart, thanking You for the incredible gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Just as Mary received this miraculous gift, help me to recognize and cherish the gift of salvation in my life. May I embrace the Holy Spirit, who guides me and empowers me to live as Your servant. Let me say with Mary, "I am the Lord's servant; may Your word be fulfilled in me." Amen.
Day 2: Trusting in Divine Direction
Scripture:
Proverbs 16:9
'In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.
https://www.bible.com/bible/11...
Devotional:
Mary's journey required her to pivot from her original plans and trust in God's direction. Her life was significantly altered, yet she chose to trust in the divine plan laid out for her. This teaches us that we may face unexpected changes in our lives, but trusting in God's plan can lead to greater fulfillment and purpose. It's about being open to holy interruptions and allowing God to guide us, even when the path is uncertain. We are encouraged to embrace the changes and challenges that come our way, trusting that they are part of a greater divine purpose. [40:27]
Reflection:
What is one area of your life where you are experiencing unexpected changes? How can you practice trusting in God's plan for this situation today?
Prayer:
Dear God, thank You for the unique purpose You have for me. Like Mary, may I be willing to trust and obey You, even when I don’t have all the answers. Help me to reflect on my life and recognise the calling You have placed on my heart. May I find joy in serving You and fulfilling the purpose You have set before me. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
Day 3: The Strength of Spiritual Community
Scripture:
'When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” '
https://www.bible.com/bible/11...
Devotional:
Mary's visit to Elizabeth highlights the importance of seeking support and wisdom from those who share our faith. Elizabeth's confirmation of the angel's message and her encouragement provided Mary with the strength and reassurance she needed. This underscores the value of surrounding ourselves with godly influences who can guide and support us in our spiritual journey.
In times of uncertainty, having a community of mentors and spiritual family can provide the guidance and encouragement necessary to grow in faith and navigate life's challenges. We are reminded that we are not alone in our journey and that community plays a vital role in our spiritual development. [35:59]
Reflection:
Who in your life serves as a spiritual mentor or support? How can you reach out to them this week to seek guidance or offer encouragement?
Prayer:
Lord, as I reflect on Mary’s journey, I ask for Your guidance on my paths. Help me to seek out community and support, just as Mary did with Elizabeth. Surround me with godly influences who can encourage and uplift me. May I trust in Your plan, even when the road ahead seems uncertain. Grant me the strength to walk in faith, knowing that You are with me every step of the way. Amen.
Day 4: Obedience Rooted in Faith
Scripture:
James 1:22
'Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.'
https://www.bible.com/bible/11...
Devotional:
Mary's obedience to God's call, despite not having all the answers, is a powerful example of faith. Her willingness to follow God's guidance, even in uncertainty, demonstrates a deep trust in His promises. This obedience is not blind faith but a confident trust in God's faithfulness. We are called to trust in God's promises and follow His guidance, knowing that He will be with us every step of the way. This requires a heart that is open to God's leading and a willingness to step out in faith, even when the path is not clear. [44:48]
Reflection:
Is there a specific area in your life where God is calling you to step out in faith and obedience? What practical steps can you take today to act on this call?
Prayer:
Lord, I thank You for the example of Mary’s obedience and faith. As Christmas approaches, help me to walk in obedience to Your will. May I be open to the holy interruptions You bring into my life and trust that You will guide me through them. Empower me with Your Spirit to live out my faith boldly and to share the love of Christ with those around me. In Your mighty name, I pray. Amen.
Day 5: Celebrating God's Faithfulness
Scripture:
Psalms 77:11-12
'I will remember the deeds of the Lord ; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago. I will consider all your works and meditate on all your mighty deeds.” '
https://www.bible.com/bible/11...
Devotional:
Mary treasured and pondered the events surrounding Jesus' birth, finding joy in God's fulfilled promises. This reflection on God's victories and faithfulness is a source of joy and strength. We are encouraged to take time to reflect on God's victories in our lives, celebrating His goodness and faithfulness. This reflection helps us recognize our purpose and the blessings God has given us, reminding us of His constant presence and guidance. By focusing on God's faithfulness, we can find joy and fulfillment in our journey, knowing that He is with us every step of the way. [46:51]
Reflection:
Take a moment to reflect on a recent victory or blessing in your life. How can you celebrate God's faithfulness and share this joy with others today?
Prayer:
Gracious Father, as I take time to reflect on the blessings and promises You have fulfilled in my life, help me to treasure these moments in my heart. Just as Mary pondered the events surrounding Jesus' birth, may I also recognise Your hand at work in my life. Teach me to celebrate Your goodness and to share my testimony with others. Thank You for Your faithfulness. Amen.
Day 6: Be Strong and Courageous
Scripture:
'Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”'
https://www.bible.com/bible/11...
Devotional:
In the face of uncertainty, Mary exemplified strength and courage when she accepted the angel's message. She was a young girl, likely filled with fear and doubt, yet she responded with faith. Equally, when Joshua was called to lead Israel into the promised land, he felt fear. God commanded Joshua to be strong and courageous in the face his challenges.
We too are called to stand firm in our faith, even when the path ahead seems daunting.
Reflection:
What fears are holding you back from stepping into what God has called you to do? Ask God for the strength to face those fears head-on.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promises and for being with me in every season of life. Help me to be strong and courageous, to trust in You, and to embrace the purpose You have for me. May I reflect on Your goodness and share Your love with those around me this Christmas. Amen.
Day 7: The Gift of the Holy Spirit
Scripture:
Acts 1:8
'But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” '
https://www.bible.com/bible/11...
Devotional:
Just as Mary received the Holy Spirit to fulfill her role in God’s plan, we too are gifted with the Holy Spirit. This gift empowers us to be witnesses for Christ in our daily lives. When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour, we receive the Holy Spirit, who guides us, comforts us, and equips us for the tasks ahead. Let’s take a moment to thank God for this incredible gift and ask for the courage to live out our calling. [34:23]
Reflection:
Are you embracing the gift of the Holy Spirit? Are you allowing the Holy Spirit to lead you in our actions and decisions?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of the Holy Spirit. I thank You that He guides me, comforts me, and equips me. May I be a bold witness for You, empowered by Your Spirit. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
