The HOPE of Christmas

Navigation Church’s December Series, “The __________ of Christmas”, looks at several elements in the Christmas story of old that still inspire our lives today. In this message, Pastor Aaron Semanek explores the hope of Christmas in order to prepare our hearts to receive the gift of Jesus this season.

Scriptures:

Proverbs 13:12, Luke 2:9-12, John 3:16, Luke 2:17-19, Romans 15:13, Psalm 39:7, Psalm 42:11, Psalm 119:81, Psalm 130:5

Discussion Topics:

1. Pastor Aaron shared the idea that hope is transitional in nature. That hope bridges the who, what, and where’s of life as we seek to make sense of the gaps we call the how’s and the why’s of life. Do you find this to be true in your own life? Please share.
2. On Sunday we looked at the three thieves of hope: Delayed Promises, Unmet Expectations, and Felt Pain. Where in your life are you or have you faced these thieves? How has or is hope helping you? Or do you feel like all hope is lost?
3. Read Luke 2:17-19. What can we learn from Mary’s response here to apply to our own life in order to find and keep hope?
4. Read John 3:16. In light of this week’s message and NavGroup conversation, how do you maybe read and understand this passage differently?