"Joy Bringer" - Traditional Worship - Grand Lake United Methodist Church

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"Joy Bringer" - Traditional Worship

December 22, 2024 • Pastor Mick Whistler • Luke 1:39–45

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Read Luke 1: 39-45.

1. What does the word “theotokos” mean? Why is Mary called

“theotokos”?

2. What did Mary and Elizabeth have in common? What

differences were there between them?

3. Why do you think Mary “got ready and hurried” to visit

Elizabeth?

4. What are all the ways Elizabeth talks about “blessing” in this

passage? How do you think Elizabeth’s words made Mary feel?

5. What happened when Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting? Why is

this significant?

6. What does it mean to choose joy? Why is important to

remember to choose joy?

7. What does it mean to be a joy-bringer? How is this related to

being a Christian?

8. How can you be a joy-bringer to people in your life?

9. How can you be a “theotokos” in your own unique way?

Prayer for the Week:

Lord Jesus, just as Elizabeth’s son leaped for joy in your presence,

we also find our joy in you. Remind us daily to choose joy regardless

of our circumstances. Help us to not only choose joy, but also be

joy-bringers to the world around us. Inspire and empower us to be

“theotokos” in our own unique ways, bearing witness to your love,

mercy and grace in this hurting and broken world. May all that we

say and do bring you honor and glory. We pray all of this in your

precious, holy and strong name, Lord Jesus. Amen.

"A New Direction" - Traditional Worship

January 5, 2025 • Pastor Mick Whistler • Matthew 2:1–12

Read Matthew 2: 1-12. 1. What do you think of when you hear the word epiphany? How is the term “Epiphany” used differently in the church compared to its usage outside the church? 2. How is the Magi story an illustration of God’s grace, specifically from the Wesleyan understanding of grace (prevenient, justifying, sanctifying)? 3. In what ways did the Magi have “aha” moments in this story? When have you had similar “aha” moments along your faith journey? 4. What drew the Magi to Jesus? What draws you to Jesus? 5. How did the Magi respond when they found Jesus? What is your response to Jesus? 6. What is the significance of the Magi not being of Jewish descent? What does that mean for the world even today? 7. Scripture tells us that the Magi “returned to their country by another route.” In what ways has Jesus changed the direction of your life? 8. Why do you think the Magi presented Jesus with such valuable gifts? How was this part of their worship? What does this teach us about giving generously? Prayer for the Week: Gracious and loving God, our light and our salvation, be present with us and shine upon us. Teach us to walk as children of the light, to give our praise and prayers. Just as the magi worshiped the Christ Child and presented him with their finest gifts, may we give ourselves to you in joyous celebration, knowing that all we are and all we have belongs to you. And Lord, we pray for those who, even today, are still living in the darkness of this world rather than living in the light of your love, mercy and grace. We pray that your goodness and mercy will shine in even the darkest corners of all our lives, drawing us closer to you, through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen.

"Perfect Peace in Imperfect Times" - Combined Worship

December 29, 2024 • Pastor Matt Overman • Philippians 4:4–9

1. What are the daily habits or patterns in your life that help you rejoice in the Lord, even during challenging times? How might you cultivate more opportunities to experience joy in God's presence? 2. When you face anxiety or worry, do you naturally turn to prayer and thanksgiving? How can you make these responses more central in your spiritual practice? 3. What occupies your thoughts most often? Reflect on Philippians 4: 8 - how can you align your thinking with what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, or praiseworthy? 4. Who in your life serves as a faithful example of practicing peace? What qualities or actions of theirs can you emulate to become a greater instrument of peace in your community? 5. What specific steps can you take this week to live out the promise of Philippians 4: 9 - "put it into practice" - so that the peace of God becomes more tangible in your relationships and daily walk? Prayer for the Week: Almighty God, as we step into this new year, we give thanks for Your unfailing presence in our lives. Help us to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances. May Your peace, which transcends all understanding, guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Teach us to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable, so that we may reflect Your light to the world. Empower us to practice what we have learned from Your Word and to live as instruments of Your peace. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

"Let it Be" - Traditional Worship

December 15, 2024 • Pastor Mick Whistler • Luke 1:26–38

Read Luke 1: 26-38. 1. Where and to whom did God send the angel Gabriel to announce the coming Christ child? What is significant about the person and place God chose? 2. Why was Mary “greatly troubled”? 3. What does it mean to “find favor with God”? 4. Has God ever called you to something that left you “greatly troubled”? If so, what was it? 5. Mary’s reactions range from fear to confusion to acceptance (see v. 29, 34 & 38). Can you relate to her reactions? Why/why not? 6. Read verse 37. What does this mean to you? How might this be a source of hope in uncertain times? 7. Read verse 38. Can you relate to Mary’s response? Why/why not? 8. How might our lives look different if we simply “let it be” as Mary does? What does it mean to “Let it be to me according to your word.”? 9. What are some promises in the Bible that you need to remind yourself of and embrace more often? 10. How can you share the Good News of God’s promises with others and help them to trust in these promises? Prayer for the Week: Gracious and Loving God, we confess that we are often troubled and confused, much like Mary was at first. Please help us to also be like Mary in moving quickly to acceptance, trusting in your promises and the power of your Word. Remind us daily of your incredible love, mercy and grace. Help us to embrace all the plans you have for us and empower us to help others do the same. Remind us that everybody needs a little Jesus, and as His followers, we are the messengers you have chosen to bring Good News to the world. Let it be to us according to your word. We pray all of this in the precious, holy and strong name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.