Small Group Questions:  A Model Heart - Luke 1:26-38

Summary:  God’s choice of Mary demonstrates that God has made the kingdom
accessible to anyone with the right heart regardless of social status.  Mary’s
heart is an example for us on how to receive the “birth of Christ” in our own lives. 
Like hers, our hearts should be contemplative, humble and submissive.

Optional Ice Breakers:
- What unusual births have you known about?
- Who do you admire most and what characteristics about them do you admire?


Explore

1.  What are some characteristics of Mary that stand out to you and why?

2.  How do you think Mary must have felt as Gabriel revealed each fact and
characteristic of Jesus?

3.  Is there anything different about Mary’s question and Zechariah’s question
earlier in the chapter?  Why does Gabriel react differently to Mary’s questions
than to Zechariah?

4.  What were some possible issues that might come up in Mary’s life when she
submits to God’s plan?

5.  Was Mary’s tendency to contemplate and ponder things a strength or a
weakness?  Explain.  

6.  What if anything does this have to do with her humility and submisiveness to
God?


Apply

7.  What would it take for you to spend more time in reflection and contemplation
of God and his will in your life?

8.  Reflect on the greatest challenges you are facing in your life right now.  What
can you do that would glorify God in them?

9.  In what way can the group pray for you?  


Prayer