Your Personal Grow-Pray-Study (GPS) Guide

Context:

This week’s text and homily invites us to reflect on Advent as a season not just for preparing for Christmas but for preparing for Jesus. John the Baptizer stands at the edge of the wilderness, calling us to repentance and readiness for the One who is to come.

Icebreaker:

What’s a time when you experienced both terror and wonder at the same moment?

After the icebreaker, read Luke 3:1-10 aloud.

What emotions or thoughts does the idea of the wilderness stir in you?

How does the wilderness setting of John the Baptizer's ministry challenge our comfort zones as we prepare for Jesus?

How does John’s urgent call to repentance apply to your life today?

What does the “fruit of repentance” look like?

Repentance often involves accountability. Who can help you stay accountable to live in a way that honors God?

John connects repentance with baptism. How does your baptismal identity shape how you live, especially during Advent?

John’s message reminds us that Jesus is not just a gentle, sentimental figure but a mighty King who rules over all. How does this reality bring both comfort and challenge to your faith?

How can acknowledging Jesus’ kingship influence your relationships, priorities, and decisions?

John calls his listeners to prepare for the coming of the Lord. What distractions or habits might keep you from thoroughly preparing your heart for Jesus?

Close in prayer, asking God to deepen your faith, grant you repentance, and fill you with hope as you await the return of Christ.