In our Bible studies this Fall we looked at the bigger story that all of scripture is telling. It’s an epic tale of God’s plan to redeem his people who have been held captive by sin. God prepared a place and a time for His own Son to enter the story, to be our Redeemer.
On December 2nd we opened the doors wide, inviting all the women of LBC to explore what our response should be to our redeeming God. Together, we noticed that there are some common responses in scripture: anticipation, seeking, adoration, and celebration.
The Big Story of the Bible leads us in anticipation.
Our own stories of being redeemed by Jesus encourage others to seek Him themselves.
Music can help us express our adoration for King Jesus.
Since much of the Christmas season is about celebration, focusing on Jesus around tables of food and honest conversations is an apt response too.
The line from the old hymn that reminds “every heart to prepare Him room” became the theme, learning how to intentionally make space for Jesus throughout this Christmas season. We do that when we remember how our relationship with Jesus has changed our life. These are some questions we pondered:
1. What difference has knowing and following Jesus made in your life?
2. What is one thing you look forward to this Christmas that is only possible because of Jesus?
3. What would you like others to know about Jesus this Christmas that would encourage, strengthen, and challenge them throughout the year?
All too often, we learn together and talk to one another about what we’re learning, but Jesus came as a baby, grew up and live as a grace-focused, faithful human, willingly sacrificed Himself so we could be free from the grip of sinful living. And His parting words to His friends and followers were about action and purpose. He said to go and make disciples – not simply a suggestion or nudge, but a command.
Making disciples might sound like a lofty goal but what if I told you that it begins with a simple conversation? When we build intentional friendships to share our story of how Jesus has transformed our life, we make disciples. This Christmas season, we hope to intentionally Prepare Him Room by stepping out to share our story of Jesus with someone we encounter just because it’s Christmastime. That’s truly celebrating Jesus as the One who makes Christmas possible.
Our women stepped into this theme, Prepare Him Room, with gusto! Dozens volunteered to serve a hot cocoa bar at the City Mission in order to strike up a conversation with folks there. Christmas cards were personally written to 20 of our missionaries. Everyone embellished framed reminders of the theme to place in their homes this Christmas. And I’m confident that the echo of singing and laughter around our tables will carry into the new year of opportunities to meet again and share our stories.
Equip Her 