December 15, 2024 "The Three Gifts To Think About This Season"

ReNew Ames Messages

This is the story where Mary goes to visit Elizabeth. It starts with Gabriel meeting Mary and goes through Mary's stay with Elizabeth. Traditionally it's called The Visitation. This story gives us three gifts to think about during the season of Christmas. First, the gift of community. Mary goes to see Elizabeth. Why? She needs someone. She needs safety. She needs affirmation. She needs someone to recognize, deepen, and celebrate the work of God in her life. She needs love, not judgment. And in Elizabeth, she gets all of that and more. Is there a better vision for what the church is called to be? What would it look like if we provided a place like that? I think we're trying here. Second, the gift of blessing. Mary shows up all confused and scared with questions and doubts. Elizabeth gives her a blessing. What does it mean to bless somebody? To give life to them. It's an art we should all strive to be better at! Last, the gift of hope. Hope that God will fulfill his promises to us. That God is already out there fulfilling his promises to us. All we have to do is look for it and we'll find it. In a world where tough things happen - a world filled with unknowns. Let's lean into community, blessing, and hope. I don't know for sure, but I think it's one of the best ways to live. Speaker: Aaron Vis Scripture: Luke 1:39-56 http://bible.com/events/49362755