First listen to the sermon (posts Sun. afternoon). Then use the ideas below to help you and your group apply what the Lord is teaching you.

Icebreaker idea: What's one Christmas tradition that especially helps you focus on the gift of Jesus?

A way to pray: Pray for our hearts during this Advent season to slow down and focus on the strange arrival we're remembering, and the return of Jesus we're anticipating!

• Treasuring God: What was strange about Jesus' arrival? What does this tell us about God's character? How does this help me treasure Him more?

• Being Transformed: How might this story of pain, difficulty, and humility help me face my own trials? How can I see trials as an opportunity for joy?

• Loving Others: From the start, Jesus paid a price to love us. How far am I willing to go to connect with others? What cost am I wiling to endure?

• Pursuing Unity: What would it look like practically for me to embrace the humility of Jesus (e.g. His choice of birthplace) to pursue unity with others?