Luke, the author of this gospel, is a doctor who has “carefully investigated everything”. How does this introduction make you feel about how much you can trust the words that follow?
Why do you think the gospel begins with a story about John the Baptist, rather than Jesus? From what the angel says, how would you describe the role that John will have?
How do you think Mary might have felt when she discovered God had a special task for her to fulfill? Do you think God has a purpose for you to fulfill? What might it be?
Zechariah obeys the instructions to call his son John, and he is then able to speak again. As you listen to what he says, what is inspiring, what is challenging, and what is hard to understand?
Have you heard this part of the Bible before? If so, was there any part that stood out differently to you as you watched it? If it is new to you, how does it make you feel?
The Holy Spirit inspired Simeon and Anna also knew who Jesus was. Do you think there is a connection between the way they lived their lives and their ability to hear from God?
You might be able to imagine the emotions of Mary and Joseph from a familiar experience of your own. What do you think of the significance of where they eventually found the young Jesus?
