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Tis The Season Week 1

SERIES TITLE

Tis The Season Week 1

SERIES OVERVIEW

‘Tis the season for Christmas trees, traditions, baked goods and gifts…but for some it could be the season of loneliness and hardship. The truth is, getting through the holidays can be harder than we care to admit. So, how can this season become one of hope, peace, love and joy rather than stress and pain? Find out during our ‘Tis The Season series as we prepare ourselves for the Christmas season.

SERMON TITLE

The Season of Loneliness

Sermon Summary

In this sermon titled “The Season of Loneliness,” Pastor Gene Appel highlights the concept of disappointment and relates it to life’s challenges and losses. Using the story of Ruth and Boaz from the Old Testament, he emphasizes the idea of redemption and how even in difficult times, God is writing a great story. The message encourages listeners not to give up on God, find hope in Jesus, and reminds them that their story is not defined by loss but by their response to it.

WARM UP

Share a time you thought you were opening one gift but inside it was different?

DISCUSSion
  1. Read Ruth 1: 16-21. Gerald Sittser, in the book A Grace Disguised, said “The experience of loss does not need to be the defining moment of our story.” He says, “The defining moment can be our RESPONSE to the loss.”

    How can our response to loss and disappointment define our story and help us grow?

    Can you think of a time in your life when you faced disappointment or loss and how your response to it shaped your growth or experience?

  2. How does the story of Ruth and Naomi in the Old Testament teach us about dedication, loyalty, and finding hope in difficult times?

    In what ways can you practice dedication and loyalty like Ruth in your own relationships and trust that God is working in your life, even in tough circumstances?

  3. Read Ruth 4:13-17. Why is the role of Boaz as a guardian-redeemer significant in the story of Ruth?

    How does understanding Boaz’s role as a redeemer help you appreciate Jesus’ role as our Redeemer? In what areas of your life do you need to trust Jesus as your guardian Redeemer?

  4. What does it mean to find hope and rest in Jesus Christ during challenging seasons?

    How can you practically seek hope and rest in Jesus during your own difficult seasons? Are there any specific challenges you’re facing right now where you need to trust God’s work?
wrap up | prayer
  • Ask for prayer requests from the group, allowing space for individuals to share any personal disappointments and losses they are experiencing or have experienced.

  • Pray for the ability to respond to disappointment and loss with faith and courage, using the story of Naomi and Ruth as an example of perseverance and commitment.

  • Pray for a deeper understanding of redemption and its role in life’s challenges, asking for God’s guidance in recognizing the Redeemer amid hardship.

  • Pray for hope and strength during the Christmas season and beyond, especially for those who may feel lonely or overwhelmed. Ask God to help each person find comfort and purpose in Jesus Christ, their guardian-redeemer.