A Christmas Story - Week 1

I know we are taking a break from small groups, but I still want to give you an opportunity to think about what we learned on Sunday, so here is a little devotional for you to work through.

Herod was a successful, influential ruler. He built impressive structures throughout his lands, and he was a man in control. But when it comes to the Christmas Story, Herod missed the point. When he heard about the baby born in a manger, he felt threatened. When we hear the Christmas Story we usually do not feel threatened, but that is because we have forgotten the danger of the story. We have forgotten that the little baby comes to be the ruler of our lives; He comes to dethrone us.

1. What did you think of the talk this week? What did you hear Jeff say?

2. If you could choose, what would the picture on the cover of your puzzle box look like?

3. How flexible are you when someone asks you to do something that doesn't fit in you puzzle?

4. How do you react when something messes up your picture? (For example: your teacher gives you a grade you feel you don't deserve, your parents won't let you get the car you want, your girlfriend or boyfriend breaks up with you)

5. How was Jesus a threat to Herod's puzzle picture?

6. How is Jesus a threat to your puzzle picture?

7. We always focus on the angels and wise men when we tell the Christmas Story. How does it change your perspective of Christmas to look at the manger through Herod's eyes?

8. Herod could not accept this baby in a manger into his life. What is terrible about accepting the baby in a manger as your personal Savior? Can you identify with Herod?

Have you ever read the Christmas Story from the Bible? I want to challenge you to read Luke 1 - 2:40. The leaders will be following up with you on Sunday to ask you what you have learned from it.