Good Morning!
Let’s focus our day by spending some time with Jesus before it begins.

WORSHIP FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Worship can be as simple as thanking God for who He is & what He does. (Psalm 100:4)
1. Start out by writing or saying out loud 3-5 things you’re thankful for.
2. Play or sing some worship music you love, or use this Christmas Worship Playlist.

SCRIPTURE FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Pray a simple prayer before reading, asking the Holy Spirit to guide you into all truth. (John 14:26)
Today’s reading is from Leviticus 4:32-35, Leviticus 16:1-22, John 1:29, Hebrews 10:1-10, 2 Corinthians 5:21 & 1 Peter 1:17-21
Highlight verses that capture your attention, and ask three simple questions as you read…
S = Say. What is the main point? What does it teach about God (Jesus) & yourself?
O = Obey. What can you apply (practice) from this passage today?
S = Share. Who can you share what you’re learning with today?
One of the best ways to learn more about the Bible is by discussing it with others.
Work through this week’s Discussion Guide and meet up with a Paradox Lifegroup.

A THOUGHT FROM TODAY’S READING…
For many families, Christmas is a time of traditions. Whether it’s the tradition of cutting down a Christmas tree, baking cookies, going shopping, or reading the Christmas story, traditions carry weight and significance. The smells, the sounds, they remind us who we are and connect us to our past, something bigger than ourselves. In a similar way, the Israelite people had a tradition for a holiday called “The Day of Atonement.” Every year, sacrifices would be made to atone (make amends or reparation for) their sin. Sin would be placed on the animals to be put to death and removed far from the people. These traditions were carried on year after year, reminding people who they were and connecting them to a bigger story. But whereas our traditions connect us to the past, these connected the Israelites to the future. These sacrifices were imperfect - “shadows” - just a glimpse of what (or who) would come to remove sin once and for all. Jesus, the lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. The beauty and meaning of the Christmas tradition is found in both looking back at God sending His lamb - Jesus - to make atonement for our sin once and for all, but also in looking forward to the day when Jesus will return to remove us from sin’s presence forever. Come Jesus, our perfect sacrifice! - Dave Kubiak

PRAYER FOCUS | 5-15 Minutes
Prayer is a conversation that involves both talking and listening to God.
If you’re just starting out, try praying through a Ripple Prayer, or use Nations Prayer to pray for the nations and those serving them.

SHARE THE FOCUS | 1-5 Minutes
1. Text someone a prayer/encouragement, or share a thought/question with us in the Forum.
2. Invite someone to read the Focus with you. Text “FOCUS” to (586) 200-6277.
Every new person that signs up for the Focus until December 1st gets entered to win a steak dinner!

That’s all for today.
Stay focused on Jesus, and make it a great one!