Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.
THANK. Write down 3-5 things you’re thankful for from the last 24 hours.
Pick a song from one of our Spotify Playlists and let it play in the background.
PRAY. What is stressful or challenging as you look ahead at this day? Write it down and talk w/ God about it.
READ. Our Scripture Focus is Matthew 9:35-36. Try memorizing it during this study!
Today’s reading is from Matthew 2 & Luke 2:39-52
THINK. A Thought from Holly MacDonald…
Jesus was twelve years old when Joseph and Mary were on their way to Jerusalem to celebrate Passover. After the feast, Jesus’ parents were headed home with the rest of the travelers. When they realized Jesus wasn’t with them, they began looking for him. I can only imagine the panic and pain Mary and Joseph must have experienced while searching for Jesus! After three long days, which probably felt like an eternity, they finally found Him sitting with teachers, listening, and asking them questions. Jesus’ response shows us that He already knew who and whose He was and what He was sent to do. Even as a child, Jesus was strong, was filled with wisdom, and God’s grace was on Him. The thing that strikes me most here is seeing Jesus teach His earthly parents. Being a parent myself, there are so many moments where my kids will respond with a “sometimes” gentle rebuke or correction that’s both humbling and often accurate. Remember though, this is not a snarky pre-teen comment from Jesus. This is the Son of God reminding Mary and Joseph of His identity, purpose, and that His most important relationship is with His Heavenly Father. Jesus, still respectful to both His earthy parents and Heavenly Father, obediently went to Nazareth with Mary and Joseph. It’s so important that we see Jesus as fully God and fully man. In order to restore God’s relationship with humans, man had to pay the price for sin. This is why Jesus is so remarkable! He took your place and mine. He left Heaven to save you, so your relationship with your Heavenly Father could be restored. Spend a few moments today, thanking Jesus that He made a way for you to spend eternity with Him. What a Savior!
ASK. Throughout this study, we’ll be practicing Discovery Bible Study (DBS) together. After each day’s reading, ask the following questions and write down your thoughts.
What is the main point of this passage?
What does it teach you about God (Jesus)?
What does it show you about people, or yourself?
What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
Who can you share this with today?
How did you do practicing and sharing what you learned yesterday?
PRAY (AGAIN). Pray for a family member, a lifegroup/church friend, someone who came to mind, someone who doesn’t know Jesus, and the nations. Pick one each day or pray through them all every day.
TALK. That was our take on today’s reading - what’s yours? Share thoughts and ask questions in the forum.
SHARE. Stay focused with a friend! Invite them to text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

Stay focused on Jesus today, and make it a great one!