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H2H: Unexpected King, Unlikely GuestsWhen Waiting Finds Its Object

H2H: When Waiting Finds Its Object(December 22nd)

Opener

  • What’s something you’ve had to wait a long time for, and how did it feel when the time arrived that you finally got it? 

Read

Take turns reading passages through Luke 2:21-35. If you have children involved, this is a great time to include the readers. 

[21] And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.[22] And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord [23] (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) [24] and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” [25] Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. [26] And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. [27] And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, [28] he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,
[29] “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
[30] for my eyes have seen your salvation
[31] that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
[32] a light for revelation to the Gentiles,
and for glory to your people Israel.”
[33] And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. [34] And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed [35] (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

(Luke 2:21–35 , ESV)

Watch Video

Encourage participants to have a pen and paper to write down questions they may have. Then, if they are not answered throughout the study, they can ask them. 

Talk About It

Luke 2:21-27—After Christmas

  • How does Mary and Joseph’s obedience to God’s law with the Son of God challenge you to think about your obedience to God’s commands? 
  • FOR THE KIDS: Sometimes it’s easier to be obedient while you wait for your parents or teachers, but after you get what you want, it is harder to obey.  Why do you think that is? Mary and Joseph didn’t just obey God while they were waiting for baby Jesus, but even after he came. 

Luke 2:28-32—The Heart of Simeon

  • What do we learn about Simeon’s faith from his long season of waiting and his sensitivity to the Holy Spirit?
  • Simeon speaks of “peace” in connection with death (v. 29). How is biblical peace different from comfort or ease?
  • How does seeing Jesus as “salvation itself” challenge the way we sometimes think about faith, works, or personal effort?
  • How does Simeon model righteous waiting in contrast to the temptations of distraction, weariness, or carelessness mentioned in the sermon?
  • FOR THE KIDS: When it is hard to wait for something, how can you honor God?   

Luke 2:33-35— The Heart of the People

  • What might Mary and Joseph’s marveling response teach us about how we should receive and ponder the truth about Christ? 
  • In what ways are you tempted to look for peace or fulfillment somewhere other than Christ?
  • How might embracing Christ as God’s salvation reshape the way you wait, hope, or endure in this season of life?
  • What do you tend to build your life upon? 
  • FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: If you could build every day around doing one thing, what would it be and why? Is that what God would want you to build your day around?  

Bring It Home

Who is someone you can tell about Jesus? Make plans to invite them to church and share the Gospel with them. 

Download Printable Copy

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H2H: Unexpected King, Unlikely Guests

H2H: Unexpected King, Unlikely Guests (December 15th)

Opener

  • What has been the best gift you have ever received and why?

Read

Take turns reading passages through Luke 2:1-20. If you have children involved, this is a great time to include the readers. 

[1] In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. [2] This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. [3] And all went to be registered, each to his own town. [4] And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, [5] to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. [6] And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. [7] And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.


[8] And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. [9] And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. [10] And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. [11] For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. [12] And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” [13] And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,


[14] “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

[15] When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” [16] And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. [17] And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. [18] And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. [19] But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. [20] And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

(Luke 2:1-20, ESV)

Watch Video

Encourage participants to have a pen and paper to write down questions they may have. Then, if they are not answered throughout the study, they can ask them. 

Talk About It

Luke 2:1-7—Unexpected Entrance

  • If you could have fresh eyes and approach the Christmas story as if it were your first time.  What do you think are the most unexpected parts? 
  • Although the Old Testament contains numerous prophecies about the arrival of the King, the people of God were not expecting Him. What holds you back from seeking Christ in your life the way the Bible describes? 
  • FOR THE KIDS: Would you be disappointed if you got no presents for Christmas? Why? (Give them time to answer) That’s because you expect them, and when we don’t get what we expect, we are disappointed, but Jesus fulfills what he says he’s going to do. What are some promises that Jesus has given us? 

Luke 2:8-14—Unexpected Announcement

  • When Zechariah gets the opportunity to obey, he doesn’t delay.  Despite the traditions of others around him and the lack of a voice, he cannot help but obey.  His obedience not only freed his tongue and glorified God, but it also inspired awe in all who saw it happen. What kind of obedience do you think we could do as individuals or the church that would inspire awe in those around us? Are there times in your life that you tend to run from the things of God because you feel unworthy? Like times when you don’t pray, read your Bible, or attend church? How does this account help us to think about those things? 
  • FOR THE KIDS: Are there kids at school or in your lives that you think would never believe in Jesus? Why? This story reminds us that Jesus especially comes for them, and you should want them to know Jesus, too. 

Luke 2:15-20—Unexpected Response

  • We saw four responses from these verses in today’s video: Go to Christ, Wonder at Christ, Treasure Christ, and Glorify Christ.  Which one do you think is most difficult for you?  
  • What are some practical ways you can more intentionally prepare yourself to respond to Christ in these ways? 
  • FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: One of the ways we can treasure Jesus is by remembering his words. Let’s work together to find a verse to memorize this week. 

Bring It Home

The Shepherds left praising God! An appropriate response to this great news of joy was to sing a song! Take time to sing a few more songs together (It’s ok to use a YouTube video to help).

Download Printable Copy

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H2H: Light In The Shadow Of Advent

H2H: Light In The Shadow Of Advent (December 8th)

Opener

  • Have you ever had someone tell you something with words, but you doubt it was true? Why?

Read

Take turns reading passages through the Luke 1:5-25 & 57-80. If you have children involved, this is a great time to include the readers. 

[57] Now the time came for Elizabeth to give birth, and she bore a son. [58] And her neighbors and relatives heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. [59] And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child. And they would have called him Zechariah after his father, [60] but his mother answered, “No; he shall be called John.” [61] And they said to her, “None of your relatives is called by this name.” [62] And they made signs to his father, inquiring what he wanted him to be called. [63] And he asked for a writing tablet and wrote, “His name is John.” And they all wondered. [64] And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God. [65] And fear came on all their neighbors. And all these things were talked about through all the hill country of Judea, [66] and all who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, “What then will this child be?” For the hand of the Lord was with him.[67] And his father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit and prophesied, saying,
[68] “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people
[69] and has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David,[70] as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old, [71] that we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us; [72] to show the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant, [73] the oath that he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us [74] that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, [75] in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.[76] And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways, [77] to give knowledge of salvation to his people in the forgiveness of their sins,[78] because of the tender mercy of our God, whereby the sunrise shall visit us from on high [79] to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
[80] And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness until the day of his public appearance to Israel.

(Luke 1:57–80, ESV)

Watch Video

Encourage participants to have a pen and paper to write down questions they may have. Then, if they are not answered throughout the study, they can ask them. 

Talk About It

Luke 1:5-25-Zechariah Who?

  • Zechariah’s circumstances, particularly his age, led him to question the promises the angel communicated to him.  As you consider your own life, are there promises in Scripture that your circumstances cause you to doubt? 
  • By the grace of God, he didn’t remove the promise because of Zechariah’s disbelief, but he did suffer a consequence for it.  Has there ever been a time in your life when your lack of faith caused you to suffer a consequence?
  • FOR THE KIDS: Can you tell us a time you had bad consequences for not believing and obeying what your parents said? This is a reminder of why we believe in God and obey His word.

Luke 1:57-66—Zechariah’s Moment

  • When Zechariah gets the opportunity to obey, he doesn’t delay.  Despite the traditions of others around him and the lack of a voice, he cannot help but obey.  His obedience not only freed his tongue and glorified God, but it also inspired awe in all who saw it happen. What kind of obedience do you think we could do as individuals or the church that would inspire awe in those around us?
  • FOR THE KIDS: It what ways could your behavior help other people to obey, worship, and be encouraged? 

Luke 1:67-80—Zechariah’s Heart

  • His initial concern with the angel Gabriel’s message was the birth of a son at his age, but by the time he could sing again, it was Gabriel’s message of salvation that was his most significant concern. What is the thing that brings you the most joy during the Holiday season? How can we grow our joy more in salvation than in other things? 
  • Zechariah declares that the goal of this glorious salvation is that we “might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all our days.” How is the salvation message inspiring you to serve the Lord more? 
  • FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: Zechariah states that the purpose of John would be to light the way for other people to find Jesus.  Who would you like to help find Jesus? Spend time praying for them together. 

Bring It Home

Mary’s response to this great news was to sing a song! What is your favorite Christmas song about the birth of Christ?  Take time to sing a few together (It’s ok to use a YouTube video to help).

Download Printable Copy

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H2H: The First Christmas Carol

H2H: The First Christmas Carol (December 1st)

Opener

  • What things amaze you most? Or what has been the most amazing experience you have ever had? 
  • Why doesn’t the Christmas story seem as amazing to us? Or why don’t we act like the Christmas story is amazing? 

Read

Take turns reading passages through the section. If you have children involved, this is a great time to include the readers. 

[39] In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, [40] and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. [41] And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, [42] and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! [43] And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? [44] For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. [45] And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.”
[46] And Mary said,
“My soul magnifies the Lord,
[47] and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
[48] for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant.
For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
[49] for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name.
[50] And his mercy is for those who fear him
from generation to generation.
[51] He has shown strength with his arm;
he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts;
[52] he has brought down the mighty from their thrones
and exalted those of humble estate;
[53] he has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
[54] He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
[55] as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”

(Luke 1:39–55, ESV)

Watch Video

Encourage participants to have a pen and paper to write down questions they may have. Then, if they are not answered throughout the study, they can ask them. 

Talk About It

Luke 1:39-45

“This is how everyone should respond to Jesus Christ: by trusting in him as Savior and rejoicing in him as Lord. We have even better reason to believe in Jesus than John and Elizabeth had. They rejoiced over his conception, but we also rejoice for his crucifixion and resurrection. This is why Luke wrote his gospel: so we would know for sure that Jesus died on the cross for our sins and was raised again to give us eternal life. Now everyone who believes in Jesus leaps for joy and calls him Lord.”

Phillip Ryken
  • In today’s text, Elizabeth and John the Baptist(pre-born) meet Jesus for the first time. Share how you came to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. 
  • Elizabeth was filled with the holy spirit and responded with great joy. In the same way, if you have come to faith in Christ, then you have been filled with the Holy Spirit. How has your life been transformed since coming to Christ? 
  • FOR THE KIDS: How has knowing about Jesus and His Bible helped you? 

Luke 1:46-50

  • Magnify or minimize, those are the options when we encounter the big realities of God’s gift of Christ Jesus.  In what way do you tend to minimize the miracle of Christmas?  In what ways could we intentionally do better at magnifying them? 
  • FOR THE KIDS: What is the most amazing thing about the Christmas story that you know? Why? 

Luke 1:51-55

  • Describe a time you have seen God provide for you and how that has helped your faith in other circumstances.
  • FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY: In what ways would you like God to help you? Spend time praying for them. 

Bring It Home

Mary’s response to this great news was to sing a song! What is your favorite Christmas song about the birth of Christ?  Take time to sing a few together (It’s ok to use a YouTube video to help).

Download Printable Copy
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Summer Reading Plan

Starting this Sunday, June 1st, we will kick off our summer series, “Summer in the Psalms!” We invite you to participate in reading through the Psalms from June to August, aiming to fill our hearts with God’s praise. Copies will be available for you to take home at church this Sunday, or you can print the image below!

Additionally, this is an excellent opportunity to practice praying through your Bible reading. If you need help with that, we highly recommend the book “Praying the Bible” by Donald Whitney. To get a glimpse of that process, here is a video produced by Crossway and Donald Whitney.

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From Anxiety to Peace: Embracing Divine Boundaries

In the hustle of modern life, many individuals find themselves ensnared in a web of anxiety and worry. A recent poll conducted by the American Psychiatric Association revealed that the levels of anxiety among adults have reached alarming rates, with a significant percentage of individuals expressing feelings of overwhelming unease about various societal issues, including the economy and safety. This increasing anxiety begs the question: how can we reclaim our peace? The cornerstone of understanding lies in discerning what is truly our responsibility versus the myriad of concerns that take root outside our control.

The distinction between responsibility and external stressors is paramount for achieving mental clarity and peace. By redirecting our focus toward the aspects of life within our domain, we can alleviate the anxiety stemming from situations beyond our influence. This principle echoes the teachings found in Matthew 25, where the righteous servants are rewarded for their diligence and faithfulness. In contrast, the wicked servant is penalized for his preoccupation with matters outside of his stewardship. This biblical narrative serves as a reminder of the importance of being intentional and productive with what has been entrusted to us.

As we navigate our responsibilities, we must also recognize the benevolent boundaries established in biblical scripture. In Matthew 6, Christ clearly advises against worrying about material needs, urging individuals instead to seek first the kingdom of God. This passage not only illustrates the futility of worry but also emphasizes the call to focus on the essential tasks set before us, entrusting God with the broader world and its concerns. This shift in mindset is critical in combating anxiety, encouraging listeners to prioritize their daily responsibilities without the burdens of global uncertainties.

In the divine design of creation, each individual is endowed with a specific purpose and role. Genesis details the assignment given to humanity: to be fruitful, multiply, and steward the earth. This imaginative volunteerism inherently suggests that we are not tasked with controlling everything but rather with fulfilling our assignments joyfully. The reality is that many feel overwhelmed, often confusing their personal allotments with the grand schemes of the universe. Accepting the limitations of our role allows us to focus more fully on being effective stewards of what lies within our immediate sphere of influence.

The story of Nehemiah further reinforces this notion. As the Israelites were rebuilding the city walls, they worked diligently in their own allocated spaces, ensuring collective responsibility was honored. This modeling of cooperation and communal effort allows individuals to reflect on their assignments rather than attempting to shoulder burdens that belong to the collective. The message is clear: by honoring our personal responsibilities while recognizing the limits on our capabilities, we can find balance and fulfillment in the stewardship entrusted to us.

Ultimately, embracing our limitations as gracious beginnings rather than stifling confines is an act of faith and obedience. It challenges us to view boundaries not as hindrances but as paths, allowing us more profound engagement in our unique contributions. Seeking divine assistance and the support of the community reinforces this perspective, illustrating that stewardship isn’t a solitary venture. Instead, it is one that calls upon collaboration, encouragement, and faith in God to empower us through our assignments.

The journey toward a more peaceful life rooted in responsibility is ongoing. By reflecting on our roles and understanding the divine purpose behind them, we step into a state of being that allows for both peace and productivity. This reexamination of responsibility invites us to surrender our non-essentials, regaining authority over the core aspects of our lives assigned by God that genuinely matter.

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From “Mine” to “Yours”: Embracing Stewardship

The heart of our recent podcast episode delves deeply into the innate tendencies we observe not only in toddlers but also in our adult lives, particularly the ownership mentality that often governs our thoughts and actions. As children grow, they articulate their sense of self through phrases like “mine” and “no,” revealing an innate desire for ownership. This seemingly innocent expression exemplifies a root human inclination that stretches far beyond childhood and directly impacts our spiritual and relational dynamics. We begin our exploration grounded in Scripture, particularly in the Book of James, which addresses the chaotic desires that arise from within. “What causes quarrels and fights among you?” James asks. By addressing the often combative nature of our interactions, we identify a pervasive mindset that places self-interest at the forefront, framing our motives and actions when engaging with others.

The deeper problem at hand is not merely our quarrels with one another; it expands to show how our ownership mentality places us in direct opposition to God. The essence of biblical stewardship is framed in stark contrast to this mentality, as it emphasizes recognizing God as both the Creator and Sustainer of all we have. Through this lens, we must strive to replace self-centered paradigms with a broader understanding of stewardship as an invitation to engage with God’s creation responsibly and joyfully. The biblical definition of stewardship unfolds across four significant points: seeing blessings as gifts entrusted to us, recognizing our limitations, acknowledging our responsibilities, and actively caring for what has been given to us by God. These foundational understandings enable us to embark upon a journey of stewardship that centers not on ownership but on our role as caretakers of God’s creativity and grace.

To anchor our reflection on stewardship, we turn to Matthew 25, where the parable of the talents provides a powerful metaphor for our responsibility toward what God has given us. The master entrusts his servants with resources tailored to their abilities, a reminder that God’s gifts are intentional and purposeful. Our task is to examine not just what we have, but how we actually steward our resources—our time, finances, relationships, and gifts—in ways that reflect faithfulness and gratitude. Each gift we perceive through the lens of God’s goodness encourages a transformative view of our lives, shifting from accumulation toward generosity, and from entitlement toward faithful service.

While the episode challenges us to examine our view of God, it also conveys an acute awareness of our own limitations. We must confront the tendency to elevate ourselves to positions of judgment regarding what God has provided. Drawing from the narratives of Job and the Israelites in Isaiah, we discover an essential truth: our perceptions are often clouded by doubt and fear. Like the servant who lacked faith in his master’s intentions, we must recognize where we have allowed pride to creep into our hearts, distorting our understanding of God’s will. This corrective spiritual discipline enables us to embrace humility and approach God with reverence rather than apprehension.

Moreover, as we navigate the grace of stewardship, we are called to embrace the truth that God is indeed the grand determiner of all things—“For from Him, through Him, and to Him are all things.” Recognizing this divine authority requires us to relinquish control and embrace our roles as stewards under His sovereignty. Each interaction with God’s gifts invites deeper gratitude for His provision, making it clear that the rightful response is worship—an act of engagement that encompasses all our thoughts, words, and actions.

Ultimately, our commitment to steward wisely empowers us to cultivate a life that reflects the richness of God’s character and the beauty of his creation. We conclude the episode with a prayer from Ephesians, reflecting on wisdom, knowledge, and the immeasurable greatness of God’s power towards us. Through diligent meditation on these themes, we can cultivate a heart that consistently seeks to glorify God in all things, inviting His perspective into our daily lives. As you consider your own stewardship journey, may you find renewed inspiration to live in faithfulness as you strive to reflect the heart of the Master in every aspect of your life.

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First Kids Camp (August 23rd & 24th)

All children potty-trained through 5th grade are invited to join us for an exciting study of the song Be Thou My Vision. We will have times of craft, games, snacks, teaching, and songs of praise led by a live worship band. Sign your kids up at the following link so that we can prepare for them: https://fbccabool.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2964729

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Women’s Bible Study (February 2025)

It’s never too late to join us! On Thursdays at 1:00 pm, ladies are invited to join us in the Fellowship Hall for a study by author Jennifer Rothschild. You’ll be encouraged to live assured, faithful, chosen, humble, justly, prayerful, and hopeful through the study of Amos.

Amos is often called a prophet of doom. And when you begin to read his prophecy, it doesn’t take long to realize that nickname fits. On the surface, his prophecy doesn’t sound like a happy formula for the good life. However, every condemnation he gives serves as an invitation, a cry for us to “seek God and live” (Amos 5:4).

Books are $22, and all are welcome!

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