The Opportunity of Christmas
Luke 2:22–40
Valerie Webb
Part of Advent 2021—Shadow & Light
December 26, 2021

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The Big Idea:

Reveal Answer
leads to
Reveal Answer

When life is chaotic, start with obedience to

Reveal Answer
…

When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord”), and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: “a pair of doves or two young pigeons.” Luke 2:22-24

…which leads to opportunity:

  1. Opportunity for

    Reveal Answer

    Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. Luke 2:25
    Simeon took the child in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel. The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him.” Then Simeon blessed them… Luke 2:28a-34a

  2. Opportunity for

    Reveal Answer

    …and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” Luke 2:34,35

  3. Opportunity for

    Reveal Answer

    There was also a prophet, Anna… She was very old. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem. Luke 2:36,38

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. Recall a time in your life when obedience to God’s word and spirit lead to an opportunity for you. How did God use that moment in your life?
  2. Proverbs 25:11 says: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.” Think honestly about how you use your words these days. How are you using your words to be a blessing to others? Who in your life needs an “apple of gold in pictures of silver” today? Take time to call, text, write that person today and use your words as a blessing.
  3. Please read John 1:9-14. Write down all the truth you see about Jesus, the “true Light” as John says. How do these truths encourage you today? How can you spread the joy of this truth to those around you?
  4. lease read James 1:22-27. What do you see in these verses about obedience to God leading to opportunity to be a blessing to others? Where in your life are you tempted to only listen to word of God, but not do it? Take some time today to ask God for the strength and courage to not just hear the word of God, but to do it!

Choosing a Good Year!

The New Year will bring all sorts of events that are out of your control. But you still have agency. You can make positive choices that will determine your serenity and growth this year. This sermon series in our regular weekend services ties into the new book, “Better Choices, Fewer Regrets.” You can also sign up for a home discussion group at tlc.org/smallgroups

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