Unexpectedਨਮੂਨਾ

The Bible is full of really important stories. But sometimes when we read these stories of people who lived such a long time ago, we're not sure how their stories relate to our lives today. So let's take one of their stories and see how it relates to your story, and God's story too.

THEIR STORY

Take some notes about the story in today's passage of Scripture.

• Who is this story about? (There might be more than one person!)
• What happens to them?
• What do they learn?
• How is God involved in their story?

YOUR STORY

Now think about your story.

• Who did you relate to most in the story you just read and why?
• Have you ever experienced anything similar to the story you just read?
• How is your story different from the story you just read?
• Have you ever had to learn a similar lesson?
• Has God ever been involved in your story in a similar way?

GOD'S STORY

So what is the story God is trying to tell, both in the story you just read and in the story of your life right now? You can find it if you look for the ways your stories overlap.

NEXT STEPS

At the time of Jesus' birth, shepherds were considered low in society. This big announcement happening to them shows the message of Jesus includes everyone. When was a time you felt included in an unexpected way?

Who could you share God's love with today that you would normally overlook?

Talk to God about what might prevent you from including others in the message of Jesus' arrival. Ask that you notice someone who needs to be included this week and share Jesus' unexpected gift.