Use the following questions based on today’s sermon as a starting point for spiritual discussions with your family or a small group of Christian friends this week.

‌Fellowship—Relationship with a Purpose

• What is one gift that others might think is lackluster but would thrill you? Is it on your Christmas list this year?

‌Growth—Thinking About Spiritual Matters

• Do you know what myrrh is? Look it up and learn more about how it is used today.

• Look up the following passages to see how myrrh was used in the Bible. Genesis 37:25; Exodus 30:23; Esther 2:12; Psalm 45:8; Mark 15:22-23; John 19:38–40

• Since myrrh was used to prepare dead bodies for burial, would Mary and Joseph be excited to receive it as a gift? What thoughts might go through their heads?

• Myrrh reminds us of Jesus’ humanity. What does it mean for him to be human? List qualities and experiences that go along with that identity.

• Read Hebrews 2:15. What human experience did Jesus avoid? Does that make him seem more human or less human? Explain.

• Why is it important for Jesus to be able to relate to us as one of us?

• How can hospitality towards others show how we feel about Jesus?

• When are you most likely to be welcoming and hospitable? When are you the least likely?

• Who are you most likely to welcome when you come to church? Who are you tempted to avoid? How can you overcome that bias?‌

Prayer—Taking Your Thoughts to God

• Honor Jesus as one of us in your prayers today.
• Pray for greater sensitivity and awareness towards those you encounter. Ask God to help you see them through His eyes, and to welcome and love them like He does.