Get Curious

Big Point: Let wonder be the frame of mind you choose.

Over the past couple of days, we’ve looked at a new definition of wonder and how it can be a vital part of our faith. Through the lives of Mary and Joseph, we saw how God was at work in the everyday of Mary’s life, and then in the apparent mess of Joseph’s life, extending an invitation, interrupting what they thought was the plan and offering an option neither could have known...
was possible. God was, is and always will be at work. Through an angel, He told both of them that they could trust in Him, giving Mary the gift of Elizabeth to provide confirmation and confidence, and to Joseph the reminder of all the prophesies that were fulfilled, essentially His Word. They didn’t know the end of the story, they didn’t know what we know today, yet they chose Him.

In much the same way, we are called to do the same today through Jesus. Jesus did, and continues to do, God’s work. Jesus provides interrupting invitations and options that we can’t know, understand or see. Jesus is faithful and invites us to follow him, through whatever it is in front of us and to live each day ready for his return, or for the call home to heaven. This isn’t our home, and the writer of Hebrews knew how important knowing this was to every believer. Going through the Old Testament’s people of faith, often referred to as the “Faith Hall of Fame”, the verses go on to point out that this earth wasn’t their final stop, that they often felt a longing for more that could only be found in the heavenly home God has prepared for His chosen people (Hebrews 11:11-13). All the more reason that our frame of mind should be to approach each day with the question of wonder, “What will You do today, God?” and then wait expectantly with wonder and hope for the answer.

READ IT… What does the Bible say?

Hebrews 12:1-2 (New Living Translation)

¹ Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. ² We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne.

Question: Why did Jesus endure the cross and disregard its shame?

Answer:

BELIEVE IT… What is the lesson for me?

According to these verses, how do we live expectantly?

LIVE IT… What will I do now?

What do you need to grow in curiosity about this Christmas season in order to have a hopeful expectation for what God is doing?

PRAY… Ask God to give you encouragement with any struggles or challenges you are having and to help you choose wonder and curiosity in Him. Then, set a reminder for today to pray at lunch or mid-afternoon as a way to begin adjusting your frame of mind to that throughout the day.