Hope | A Child Is Born
November 30, 2025
Long before Bethlehem, Isaiah saw Christmas coming. In a world of gloom and darkness, he promised a great light. That hope didn’t arrive through armies or politics but through a child—a Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. Part one of Unto Us: The Gospel According to Isaiah reminds us that Jesus is our only hope —the light in our darkness, the child in the manger, and the King whose reign will never end.
Passage
The Hope is ##light## in the ##darkness##.(Isaiah 9:1-5)
The Hope Comes Through a ##child##. (Isaiah 9:6)
The Hope will ##reign## ##forever##. (Isaiah 9:7)
Principle
True hope is not found in ##power## or ##politics##, but in the child who is ##God## with ##Us##.
Practice
Stop chasing hope in your ##circumstances##, politics, and self-effort and welcome ##Jesus## to ##reign## in the dark and restless places of your life.
Small Group Questions
Use this outline for personal reflection, as a couple’s or family devotion, or with a small group.
HANGOUT
The angel Gabriel told Mary she would give birth to a son who would be the Savior of the world. This was more than she could understand or explain, but she believed God’s word. What is the most surprising piece of news you’ve ever received? How did you respond—fear, disbelief, excitement, or hope? Why do you think the Christmas story still captures the imagination of people all over the world, even those who don’t fully believe it?
HEAR
Read Luke 1:26-30
- Why do you think Mary was “greatly troubled” at Gabriel’s greeting? What does this tell us about her understanding of God and herself?
- Gabriel says, “Do not be afraid.” Why do you think fear so often accompanies encounters with God? When have you experienced fear and faith at the same time?
- Why does God often use the humble, the young, and the overlooked to accomplish His purposes? Can you think of other biblical or modern examples?
Read Luke 1:31-34
- The angel announced that Mary’s child would be great and would reign forever. How does this echo Isaiah’s prophecy of the Messiah (Isaiah 9:6–7)?
- What do these names and titles (Son of the Most High, King, eternal throne) reveal about who Jesus is?
- Mary asks, “How will this be?” When have you asked God “How?” about something He has promised? What did you learn?
Read Luke 1:35-38
- What role does the Holy Spirit play in making God’s promises a reality in Mary’s life—and in ours today?
- Gabriel informs Mary of Elizabeth’s miraculous pregnancy: “Nothing will be impossible with God.” What impossible situation in your life do you need to entrust to Him?
- Mary responds, “I am the Lord’s servant. May your word to me be fulfilled.” What does this reveal about her faith and surrender? How might her response challenge or inspire you?
HUDDLE
Where do you need to embrace hope in the middle of fear or uncertainty this season? What would it look like for you to echo Mary’s words: “I am the Lord’s servant”? Share honestly, invite accountability, and pray for one another to trust God’s promises and live with hope.
Daily Reading
Reflection Question: What does it mean to hope when you cannot yet see what God has promised?
- Day 1: Isaiah 9:1-7
- Day 2: Genesis 3:8-15
- Day 3: Psalm 130
- Day 4: Luke 1:26-38
- Day 5: Romans 15:4-13
- Day 6: Hebrews 11:1-16
- Day 7: Isaiah 40:1-11
Passage to Memorize: Isaiah 9:6
Think Deeper
- Why do you think God chose to bring salvation through weakness instead of strength?
- Which of the Messiah’s four names do you most need this Advent?
- How does Christ’s eternal reign change the way you see your present struggles?
Suggested Resources
The Music of Christmas, by Gary and Sheri Webber
Watch for the Light, Various Authors (Plough Publishing)
Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus, edited by Nancy Guthrie
Behold the Lamb, by Andrew Peterson
Check out these and other books from our suggested reading list at https://bit.ly/AspireSMB.