Advent Week 1:
Jesus Is – Light of the World (John 8:12; 9:5)
3 Questions to Explore
- As a child where you afraid of the dark and how did you cope with it? Did you know the Israelites were too? Read: Exodus 13:21-22
- We’re all visited by darkness. Has there been a time in this strange year when you experienced the burden of darkness?
- What does it mean to you that Jesus said “I Am the Light of the World”? How does this give us hope for today and tomorrow?
2 Prayer Prompts
- I thank you God for being the Light of the World and my world, especially for . . .
- God I invite you to shine your light in my/our . . . .
1 Action
- Read and pray through Matthew 5:14-16. This week look for a specific way to share that light with your community in Kingston. Don’t forget to share how it went next week.
Advent Week 2:
Jesus Is – The Good Shepherd (John 10:7-8; 11-14)
3 Questions to Explore
- There are a lot of “voices” in life calling for our attention and allegiance. What are some of the more prominent ones? Which ones are you most susceptible to and why?
- Read John 10:7-9 and 11:14,16. Jesus clearly stated that his sheep can distinguish his voice from all other voices. How does Jesus speak? (Yes the Bible, how else?)
- Warren said that “it takes practice for us as sheep to hear the voice of the Great Shepherd.” As disciples, how can we posture ourselves to respond/hear? (Hint: Spiritual Disciplines!!)
2 Prayer Prompts
- Jesus, thank you for being our Good Shepherd and for the way you have been leading . . .
- Holy Spirit, help me to tune in to your voice and to be less influenced by the voice of . . .
1 Action
- Think through an area of life (be it financial, relational, professional, recreational, physical, or spiritual) where Jesus’ voice might be lacking. Commit to daily praying God’s leading and courage for following in this area.
Advent Week 3:
Jesus Is – The Resurrection and the Life (John 11:25)
3 Questions to Explore
- What part of the message did you connect with most and why?
- What does it mean to you today that Jesus is the Resurrection and the Life?
- “The fact that we’re living doesn’t mean we’re alive.” What habits or ruts keep us/you from being fully alive? What might be a positive replacement?
2 Prayer Prompts
- Jesus, giver of life and hope of resurrection I/we thank you for . . .
- God you know that though I live I’m not fully alive. I/we invite you Holy Spirit to come do a work of life especially in the areas of . . .
1 Action
- Till Christmas, fast from one life sapping activity (ie an app or alcohol) while replacing it with one life giving activity (ie podcast or prayer walk).
Advent Week 4:
Jesus Is – The Way and The Truth (John 14:1-14)
3 Questions to Explore
- Of all the I Am’s of Jesus, which one do you relate to most and why?
- In your experience, what things make you feel most at home and why? Anything you miss or long for? (Think through the C.S. Lewis Quote!)
- In saying I Am the Way, Truth and Life Jesus was affirming on his life that he can lead us home. How might this impact our lives even in the midst of Covid or other circumstances?
2 Prayer Prompts
- Jesus I thank you for being the Way, Truth and Life and the difference that makes for me/us in . . .
- Holy Spirit you know how I/we long for home, help us/me to live intentionally with patience and perseverance especially in the area of . . .
1 Action
- Confession and Community are key knowing and following Jesus. This week reach out to a Bay Parker or community member to encourage them in knowing and following Jesus.