Description

This weekend we talk about the tension between expectations and expectancy.

We all walk into the Christmas season carrying hopes, plans, and pressures — and when God doesn’t meet our expectations, discouragement can creep in. But Mary shows us a better way. When her plans were disrupted, she moved from control to surrender…from “God, do it my way” to “Lord, let it be according to Your word.”

Expectations box God in. Expectancy invites God in.

And when we open our hands like Mary, we make room for God to do exceedingly and abundantly more than we could imagine. This message is an invitation to release control, trust God, and step into this season with expectant faith — because nothing is impossible with God.

Discussion Questions:

1. What stood out to you most from Mary’s interaction with the angel in Luke 1:26–38? What words, phrases, or details felt significant or surprising?
2. How would you describe the difference between expectations and expectancy—in your own words?
3. Where in your life right now do you feel a similar kind of tension—between what you expected and what God is doing (or not doing)?
4. What typically happens inside you when God doesn’t meet your expectations?
5. What is one very practical way you can make room for God this week—physically or spiritually?