Not Just On Christmas | When there is not hope, bring it.
While so many think the Christmas story ends with the birth of Jesus, we want students to see that in reality, that is just the beginning of the hope, peace, joy, and love He brought to the world. These are things we can experience through Jesus not just on Christmas, but throughout the year.
BOTTOM LINE
When there is not hope, bring it.
SCRIPTURE
(Jeremiah 33:14-16) "'The days are coming, declares the Lord, 'when I will fulfill the good promise I made to the people of Israel and Judah. "In those days and at that time I will make a righteous Branch sprout from David's line; he will do what is just and right in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The Lord Our Righteous Savior'" (Isaiah 9:6 NLT) For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
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JUST FOR FUN
What's a Christmas tradition your family has that you hope continues forever, and what's one you wouldn't mind leaving behind?
DISCUSS THIS
1. The message talked about the difference between hope and wishing. How would you describe that difference in your own words?
2. Jeremiah delivered a message of hope when people were in a really tough, hopeless situation. Why is it significant that God's promise wasn't a "quick fix" but something that would happen in the future?
3. What are some things that make it difficult to feel hopeful today?
4. The message said real hope is grounded in who God is, not just in our circumstances getting better. Why is that a more stable foundation for our lives?
5. What do you think it means to "bring hope" versus just "feeling hopeful"? What does that practically look like at your school or in your friend group?
6. Think of a time someone did something small that gave you a sense of hope. What did they do?
7. What is one area in your life, your family, or your school where hope feels like it's miss-ing? What's one small step you could take to bring hope to that situation this week?
TRY THIS
Challenge your students to become hope-bringers this week. As a group, brainstorm a few simple, practical ways to show up for someone (ex. encouraging text, inviting them to hang, or just catching up. Encourage them to choose one action and do it this week, reminding them that the goal isn't to fix the problem but to be present.