Unexpected Heroes

Ruth 4:17-22; Matthew 1

By Pastor Kelly Mahoney, December 15, 2024

God’s Word gives believers:

1) in the present.

2) for the future.

3) from the past.

Applying God's Word to Life

  1. What’s a favorite story you read in a book and you also watched the movie? Which media was better for which purpose? Why?
  2. What are some examples of your favorite books? Why?
  3. Though “a picture is worth a thousand words,” what do we miss if there are no words accompanying the pictures?
  4. Why were you given your name or how was it chosen?
  5. What is the greatest challenge before for you currently? What do you need in order to overcome all that you’re currently facing?
  6. What is God’s purpose for you right now? How do you know?
  7. What gives you hope as you consider the future?
  8. What impossibilities stood before you in the past and which ones are you facing right now?
  9. When you are tempted to shrink back in fear, what thought or concern holds you back in your mind? What does God’s word say?
  10. What does God want you to take hold of right now so that you can face the present and walk by faith in the future?
  11. What needs to change about what you think, feel, or do so that you can fulfill God’s purpose in this season of your life? Say “yes!”

Announcements

The Hope Community Church Carol Choir will lead carols at the Living Nativity in Glenwood: this Thursday, December 19, at 6 p.m. There are no auditions or rehearsals! Come and make a joyful noise while reminding our community of the real reason for the season. After caroling, we will head up the block to Cochrans for cookies and cocoa.

Youth Cookie Baking and Decorating Outreach Event:  This Wednesday, December 18 after school and during regular youth group time (6:30pm).  Parents and youth should read the weekly email or the personal email sent by Pastor Kelly for important details about this event!

The Dawning of Indestructible Joy Read on Facebook Live: Check out our Facebook Group to hear a family from Hope read the Advent Devotion each day. New Bible Study on Wednesdays at Central Square: in Glenwood, room 109 from 6:30-8:00 p.m. “Ephesians: Our Immeasurable Blessings in Christ” by John MacArthur. Contact Randy Ihnen (320) 760-7102 or Mandy Slotten (320) 424-0839.

Greeters and Bakers wanted for the Christmas Eve Service:  If  you are willing to bring some home made cookies/goodies or if  you are willing to greet/hand out candles for the service on Christmas Eve, please text Vickie (320-805-0450).  We could use 1-2 more greeters and some more bakers.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service: Tuesday, December 24 at 4:30 p.m. at Central Square Auditorium and on livestream. There will not be a nursery, but the community room will be open for parents and nursery age children. Refreshments and fellowship before and after the service.

Preschool Open Gym: Friday, December 20 from 10:00-11:30 a.m. This is a free event for young children and their caretakers. Invite friends and enjoy free time at Central Square gym in Glenwood.

Sermon Based Small Group: Wednesdays at 6:45 p.m. at the Starbuck site. Attend when you are able.