Sunday School: Zechariah Speaks

Good morning!
We're so happy you decided to join us for the third Sunday of Advent!

When we meet together, we share our joys and concerns from the week. If you have any prayer requests from the past week, you can share them in the comments of this post so that we can all pray. When you are ready, use the prayer below (source) to get started. 

God of Love,
Your son, Jesus, is your greatest gift to us.
He is a sign of your love.
Help us walk in that love during the weeks of Advent,
As we wait and prepare for his coming.
We pray in the name of Jesus, our Savior. Amen.

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Today's lesson is on Luke 1:57-66, 76-79. 

This text highlights the fulfillment of God’s promises to a family and to the whole world. Luke’s Gospel emphasizes God’s work in the world by way of Elizabeth, Mary, and their experiences while pregnant. When Zechariah questioned Gabriel, he became mute until the child was born. When he recovered his voice, his first act was to praise God!

Conclusion
Despite his unbelief, God showed his goodness to Zechariah and Elizabeth by giving them a son. Zechariah discovered God is faithful and merciful despite our unbelief. His faithfulness invites us to give him praise. His mercy calls us to embrace his forgiveness. Where God’s salvation is present, darkness and death will turn to light and life.

Prayer
God, thank you for your display of mercy to us: the forgiveness of our sins through your Son, Jesus Christ. Though we may not often have adequate words, we praise you. Show us how we might prepare the way in the hearts of others to receive your forgiveness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Thought to Remember
God’s faithfulness will lead us to praise.

Benediction
Our benediction today is from the New International Reader's Version.

Next week's lesson will be on Luke 3:2b-6, 15-18.