Advent (For the way of Jesus) | Advent | 12.07.25

Follow Along with the Message

Luke 2:1-7

Advent is the season where we slow down, open our hands, open our hearts and
minds, and prepare space for Jesus to come to us again. Share how you are personally
Making Room for Christ this holiday season.
Read Luke 17:20-21
Our hearts are so crowded with “things” is there really any room for the Kingdom?
Discuss God’s kingdom being internal (within us) vs. the physical world.

American Christianity often idolizes comfort over suffering. Phil posed 2 questions:
 In what ways do I try to avoid the suffering and failure Jesus might be setting
before me? 
 Before whom do I most dread looking foolish? Name them

Read John 1:9-11
We pray “your kingdom come; your will be done.” Then when the kingdom comes there
is no room in our hearts if His kingdom means I suffer or His kingdom means I do not
experience personal success. How much of American Christianity is not the way of the
Kingdom of God?

Luke 1:38
If Mary surrendered her plans so Jesus could be formed in her, then we must ask
ourselves:
 What desire, fear, or attachment is shaping my decisions more than Jesus is right
now?
 Where am I clinging to control instead of surrendering to Christ?