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EMOTIONAL ISSUES: Precious Memories


Icebreaker:

Note: Not everyone in your group will have precious memories of their mother. Some in your group may not have known their mother. For women who never had a child, it can be a sad reminder of empty arms. Be sensitive to everyone’s situation.  

Overview:

On a trip to Ephesus, Turkey, our tour group visited a restored, stone house overlooking the Aegean Sea that is believed by many to be the house where the Apostle John took Mary, the mother of Jesus, after Jesus’ death on the cross. Mary lived in this tiny, mountainside home the rest of her life. No one can say for sure if this dwelling is the actual home of Mary, but I can tell you that when I stepped inside, I was overcome with an emotion that I cannot explain. Mary was a real person who lived and loved her children. She was just like me and millions of other mothers except one of her children just happened to be the Son of God. What precious memories she stored up in her heart!

Discussion:
Read John 19:26-27, John 2:1-12.

What had God promised Mary? (Luke 1:26-38)
What precious memories did Mary have? (Luke 2:16-19)
What was Mary’s relationship with Jesus?
How did their relationship change when Jesus started His ministry?
How did Mary’s belief in Jesus support His ministry?
Why does having someone who believes in you unconditionally feel so good?
How does precious memories of mentors in our life support our dreams?

Prayer:
Pray for strong, loving relationships to support your life and help you support others.

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