Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use this Christmas Worship Playlist.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Luke 2:21-40, Isaiah 9:2, & Isaiah 49:6 & 13
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?
One of the best ways to learn more about the Bible is by discussing it with others.
Work through this week’s Discussion Guide and meet up with a Paradox Lifegroup.

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
I hate waiting. April, my wife, sent me up to Meijer for “a few things” this past Saturday afternoon. Oh man, those lines!!! (And I can never seem to pick the right one.) Whether it’s store lines, being stuck in traffic, waiting for physical healing, or maybe relational healing…waiting is tough. I think the hardest part for us is the uncertainty regarding when, and IF, the thing we are waiting on will ever come to pass. Simeon seemed like a man who believed God’s promises, so I don’t think there was doubt in him that God would let him see the Messiah. However as the years dragged on, I am sure he must have gotten frustrated at times, maybe even wondering if he missed the Messiah somewhere along the way. Imagine his excitement when he received a strong prompting from God that day and actually got to hold, and behold his savior. And not just his savior, but “a light for revelation to the Gentiles and glory to your people Israel.” Simeon was able to meet God, because he believed and was patient. We are luckier than Simeon…we do not need to wait to meet our savior. Through the Spirit, we are able to meet with God directly. No more waiting and wondering in darkness, If you haven’t already, invite Jesus into your life TODAY, and see the transforming power of his great light. - Mike Nank

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
If you’re just starting out, simply pray the prayer Jesus taught his followers: the Lord’s Prayer, or pray through the Lord’s Prayer using this Lord’s Prayer guide.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!