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Big Idea: God often uses what is old and familiar to prepare us for something new.
Opening Image
• In Encanto, Casita isn’t just a house—it shapes the whole story
• In Luke, the temple plays a similar role
• Luke begins Jesus’ story in the temple to show continuity—and coming change
Setting (Luke 1:5–7)
• Time: the reign of Herod the Great
• People: Zechariah and Elizabeth—faithful, obedient, childless
• Their story echoes Old Testament patterns (Sarah, Rachel, Hannah)
The Temple Moment (Luke 1:8–12)
• Zechariah is chosen to burn incense in the temple
• While the people pray outside, God interrupts inside
• An angel appears—fear is the natural response
The Announcement (Luke 1:13–17)
• Elizabeth will bear a son named John
• John will be filled with the Spirit
• His role: prepare the way for the Lord
• This is bigger than a personal miracle—it’s a turning point
Silence and Waiting (Luke 1:18–23)
• Zechariah questions how this can happen
• He is rendered mute
• Like the prophet Ezekiel, silence may build anticipation—not just punishment
Elizabeth’s Response (Luke 1:24–25)
• Elizabeth conceives after years of waiting
• God acts
• Luke’s story begins to move toward song and praise
What Luke Is Showing Us
• This story feels very “Old Testament”
• God is deeply rooted in what has come before
• But something new is beginning
• The old is not discarded—it is fulfilled
Invitation
• Where have things become too familiar?
• Where might God be preparing you for something new?
• Don’t get so comfortable that you miss what God is doing.
Suggested Resources
For Reflection
Remember: Jesus loves you right where you are, but He loves you too much to leave you there.