The Wise Women

Most people know about the "three wise men" in the story of Christ's birth (Matthew 2), but this episode shifts the spotlight to the wise women who played pivotal roles in the events surrounding Jesus’ birth.

• Quick Facts on the Wise Men:
  • Number: Speculated to be three because of their gifts (gold, frankincense, myrrh).
  • The Star: They didn't follow the Star
  • Timing: They likely arrived years after Jesus' birth (Matthew 2:11).

Focus for Today:

• Let’s explore the lives and wisdom of three wise women: Elizabeth, Mary, and Anna.

1. Elizabeth: The Wisdom of Waiting

1. Wait Patiently:
   • Trust in God’s timing, even when it feels delayed.
   • Elizabeth’s unwavering faith shows us the power of persistence.
2. Wait Prayerfully:
   • Persistent prayer aligns us with God’s will.
   • Elizabeth’s prayers were eventually answered in a way that glorified God.
3. Wait Faithfully:
   • Serve God wholeheartedly, even when life doesn’t go as planned.
   • Elizabeth’s faithfulness reminds us that God often works after periods of waiting.

2. Mary: The Willing Servant (Luke 1:26–38, 46–55)

Lessons from Mary’s Willingness:

• Mary surrendered her life to God’s will, saying, “I am the Lord’s servant” (Luke 1:38).
• She embraced God’s plan with joy and trust, even though it meant facing societal judgment and great personal challenges.

3. Anna: The Wisdom of Witnessing

Lessons from Anna’s Witnessing:

1. Witness to a Person:
   • Anna spoke of Jesus, directing others to Him as the hope of redemption.
   • Challenge: Our testimony should always point others to Christ.
2. Witness to All People:
   • Anna shared the message of redemption with everyone seeking hope.
   • Challenge: Proclaim the good news boldly, without reservation.
3. Witness with Passion:
   • Anna’s life was fully dedicated to proclaiming the Messiah, showing deep commitment and enthusiasm.

Closing Challenge: Let the wisdom of these three women inspire us to trust God—whether we are waiting, surrendering, or witnessing.

Church Website:

https://www.ashlandstreetbaptist.com/