A Father Who Follows the Lord

Matthew 1:18-25; 2:13-15, 2:19-23; Luke 2:21-24, 39-40

By Pastor Kelly Mahoney, December 21, 2025

Fathers serve God by serving their families with:

  1. for God’s word.
  1. to God’s leadings.
  1. toward God’s gifts to them.

Applying God's Word to Life

  1. What are some of your favorite Christmas memories associated with your dad?
  2. How did your mom and dad meet? What do you know about what drew him to her?
  3. What does it look like to hang on “the Father’s every word”?
  4. What does it look like to balance both grace and truth?
  5. What does your dad typically do when he gets lost? How does he get back on track?
  6. What are some of the things your dad has taught you or lead you into?
  7. What were some of the challenges your dad faced as a result of culture, circumstances, or the timing of your upbringing?
  8. What were some of the major direction changes in your dad’s life that resulted in moves, new jobs, or a new focus?
  9. What are some of the things a dad would want to protect those he loves from? What does that look like?
  10. What are some of the “costs” associated with being a good husband and father?
  11. How does the Lord want you to respond so you can take your place in His story ? How will you say “Yes” to Him today?

Announcements

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service:  Wednesday, December 24 at 4:30 p.m. at Starbuck (no livestream) NOTE: The location has changed from previously advertised. Refreshments will be served before and after the service. The nursery room will be open for young children and parents, but it will not be staffed with volunteers.

“The Three Wise Guys”: Carlyn Cole will be leading the sermon time on December 28 from the perspective of the three wise men.

District Blitz Registration is Open: This is a fun filled, spiritually impactful youth rally in Duluth, MN on April 17-19. The total cost is $240 that can be paid in full by March 31 or 3 installments of $80 each by March 31. Go to our weekly email or contact Vickie for a link to register and pay.

Women’s Prayer Brunch: Saturday, January 17 at 10:00 am at Maria Gustafson’s home (709 East 7th Street, Morris). All women are welcome to enjoy a morning of food, fellowship and prayer. Rsvp helpful (320-287-1834).

No Children’s Church: December 28 and January 4. Activity packets will be available.

No Youth Group: on December 24 and 31. Youth group will resume January 7.

Sermon Based Small Group Glenwood: Tuesdays at 7:00 pm at Central Square, Suite 200 (Hope Office) led by Bruce Geiser.  Attend when you are able.

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