This Christmas season, we’re preparing our hearts for the arrival of Jesus by going back to where the Christmas story really begins.
From the first pages of Genesis to the manger in Bethlehem, Christmas is the thread running through the whole Bible. It’s a story within God’s bigger story about how God plans to rescue the people He loves.
How to use this devotional:
Watch the episode. Reflect on and discuss the questions. Discover how to apply it to real life. Enjoy a simple prayer.
Key Scriptures: Luke 1:26–38; Exodus 2:1–10; Luke 1:46–55; 1 Corinthians 1:26–29; John 7:37–38
1. WATCH
VIDEO SUMMARY
Have you ever wondered why God chooses certain people to accomplish His purposes?
Why would the Creator of the universe choose an unknown young woman from an insignificant village to play such an extraordinary role in His plan of redemption?
In Episode 2, we travel to Mary's Well in Nazareth and discover the remarkable story of Miriam—the young woman we know as Mary.
Her story echoes that of another Miriam, the sister of Moses, who helped preserve the life of the man God would use to deliver Israel from slavery.
Centuries later, another Miriam would give birth to Jesus, the One who came to deliver humanity from sin.
Both stories remind us of a beautiful biblical truth: God delights in accomplishing extraordinary things through ordinary people who trust Him.
God isn't looking for impressive résumés. He's looking for willing hearts.
REFLECT & DISCUSS
Use these questions for personal reflection or conversation with others.
→ THE UNEXPECTED: Why does God choose ordinary people?
Read Luke 1:26–33. Why do you think God chose a young woman from an overlooked village rather than someone wealthy, powerful, or influential? What does this reveal about God's values compared with the world's?
→ THE CONNECTION: What do the two Miriams teach us?
Read Exodus 2:1–10. How did Moses' sister Miriam demonstrate courage and faithfulness? What similarities and differences do you see between her role in God's rescue of Israel and Mary's role in the coming of Jesus?
→ THE RESPONSE: What does surrender really look like?
Read Luke 1:34–38. Mary didn't fully understand what God was asking of her, yet she responded, "I am the Lord's servant." What fears or uncertainties might she have faced? What makes trusting God difficult when we don't know how things will turn out?
→ THE KINGDOM: How does God turn our expectations upside down?
Read 1 Corinthians 1:26–29. The world celebrates power, achievement, and influence. God often works through weakness, humility, and faith. Where have you seen God accomplish something meaningful through someone the world might overlook?
→ THE CALLING: Are you available?
Mary's calling was unique, but every follower of Jesus is called to make His presence known. What opportunities has God placed before you—in your family, neighborhood, workplace, or friendships? What might it look like for you to respond, as Mary did, with a willing yes?
3. Discover: Living the Story
This week, consider an area of your life where you've been hesitant to follow God's leading.
Perhaps you feel unqualified, inadequate, too busy, or afraid of what others might think.
Instead of asking, "Am I capable?" begin asking, "Am I available?"
Identify one simple, practical way you can make the love and presence of Jesus known to someone this week.
It might be an encouraging conversation, an act of kindness, an offer to pray, or a step of obedience you've been postponing.
Remember, you don't have to be extraordinary to be used by God. You simply need to be willing.
A PRAYER
Father, thank You for reminding us that You see what the world so often overlooks. Thank You for choosing an ordinary young woman named Mary to play such an extraordinary role in Your story of redemption. Forgive us for the times we've allowed fear, insecurity, or feelings of inadequacy to keep us from following You. Give us humble hearts, courageous faith, and the willingness to say, as Mary did, "I am the Lord's servant." Help us carry the love and presence of Jesus into the lives of those around us. Amen.
COMING NEXT — EPISODE 3
Our journey continues as we discover another remarkable piece of God's rescue plan, unfolding through the centuries.
