Prayer
Because the primary goal of our time together is to establish relationships and learn how to walk with one another in all that God has called us to be and do, we’d like to begin by praying for one another. So, does anyone have anything you’d like us to pray for or anything to share regarding how you’ve seen God moving in your life that we can celebrate together?
Opening Question
What is one of your family traditions at Christmas?
Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen these.” So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.” So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah.
– 1 Samuel 16
The Past Untold
Surprisingly, the Bible does not tell us much about David’s family of origin, including his mother’s name.
What do you imagine David’s family was like before Samuel arrived that day?
What factors typically cause names and stories to be lost or forgotten in families?
What is one story from your family that you hope is remembered?
The Present Told
In the sermon, we heard about how the middle part of most stories is often the most painful or difficult part.
How was David’s anointing the beginning of the middle part of his story?
Do you remember a time when you felt stuck in the middle part of your story, but God eventually intervened? Can you share a little about that?
If you are in a difficult chapter of your story now, what are you believing for God to do to rescue you and bring about redemption?
The Eternal Telling
I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.
– John 17:20-21
The sermon mentioned that our connections to our family is deep in our bones. Who in your family do you feel connected to? Who would you like to feel more connected to?
What do you imagine it would look like, for Christians to live in unity the same way the three Persons of the trinity live in unity?
Closing Thought
“Stories are verbal acts of hospitality.”
– Eugene Peterson
In your final moment together, take turns sharing stories about one another. Try sharing stories that answer questions such as: Who did you first meet in the group? What is one of your favorite memories from a gathering? Who has helped you feel seen, known, or supported in the group?