Opening
What is something you are most thankful for?
Context
Zecheriah and Elizabeth had waited decades for a child, yet none had come. The nation Israel had waited centuries for a word from God and more over, a Messiah – yet none had come. When the prayer is answered for Zechariah and Elizabeth their words express their gratitude for God, the source of all blessing. Not only was the prayer answered, so was the promise that God would send a prophet – and that prophet would precede a Messiah. Jesus is the Messiah sent from God to redeem His people forever. For that we too can be eternally grateful.
Scripture
- Malachi 4:1-6
- The prophecy given at the end of the Old Testament concerning the prophet to come and the Messiah that will follow him.
- Luke 1:5-25
- The encounter between Zechariah and an angel foretelling of this son to be born – a son we know as John the Baptist.
- Luke 1:39-45
- The encounter between the expecting Elizabeth and Mary who is also expecting and carrying Jesus the Messiah.
- Luke 1:57-80
- The birth of this prophet and his naming followed by the song of blessing from Zechariah.
Discussion
How do you express your gratitude?
What has God done that you are grateful for?
How can our lives reflect the grace and goodness God has for us?
How can we pray for you this week?
Psalm 30
(Psa 30:1 ESV) A Psalm of David. A song at the dedication of the temple. I will extol you, O LORD, for you have drawn me up and have not let my foes rejoice over me. (Psa 30:2 ESV) O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me. (Psa 30:3 ESV) O LORD, you have brought up my soul from Sheol; you restored me to life from among those who go down to the pit. (Psa 30:4 ESV) Sing praises to the LORD, O you his saints, and give thanks to his holy name. (Psa 30:5 ESV) For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. (Psa 30:6 ESV) As for me, I said in my prosperity, “I shall never be moved.” (Psa 30:7 ESV) By your favor, O LORD, you made my mountain stand strong; you hid your face; I was dismayed. (Psa 30:8 ESV) To you, O LORD, I cry, and to the Lord I plead for mercy: (Psa 30:9 ESV) “What profit is there in my death, if I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it tell of your faithfulness? (Psa 30:10 ESV) Hear, O LORD, and be merciful to me! O LORD, be my helper!” (Psa 30:11 ESV) You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, (Psa 30:12 ESV) that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to you forever!