Words of Welcome

Prayer

Dear God, we thank you for this meal and the joy of sharing it with friends. We ask that you bless this food to nourish our bodies and conversations to uplift our spirits. May our time together be filled with laughter, love, and meaningful connection. We are grateful for your presence in our lives and for the gift of community. Amen.

GRAB FOOD AND START TO EAT

If there is someone you don’t recognize at your table Introduce yourself:

1. Name and Pronouns

2. What do you do full time? Work, school, etc. and what do you do/study?

3. If you could have an unlimited supply of one thing, what would it be?

Finding joy

Luke 1:46-55 (CEB)

46 Mary said,

“With all my heart I glorify the Lord!
47     In the depths of who I am I rejoice in God my savior.
48 He has looked with favor on the low status of his servant.
    Look! From now on, everyone will consider me highly favored
49         because the mighty one has done great things for me.
Holy is his name.
50     He shows mercy to everyone,
        from one generation to the next,
        who honors him as God.
51 He has shown strength with his arm.
    He has scattered those with arrogant thoughts and proud inclinations.
52     He has pulled the powerful down from their thrones
        and lifted up the lowly.
53 He has filled the hungry with good things
    and sent the rich away empty-handed.
54 He has come to the aid of his servant Israel,
        remembering his mercy,
55     just as he promised to our ancestors,
        to Abraham and to Abraham’s descendants forever.”

Questions:

1. What were some of the words or phrases that stuck out to you in this scripture and why?

2. Where do you see examples of joy in this scripture?

3. What are some ways you work to actively seek out joy?

Prayer

Giver of joy, in the depths of hard moments, bring us closer to you so that we may discover your joy. Allow us to make space for joy as we wait with you each day this season.

Amen

REMEMBER - YOU ARE A GIFT!

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