1. The Unlikely Gift

2. “Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be pregnant through the Holy Spirit. Because Joseph her husband was faithful to the law, and yet did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.” Matthew 1:18-19

4. “Seek first to understand – then to be understood” - Francis of Assisi

5. “The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding.” Proverbs 4:7

6. Homework: Find someone with a different viewpoint Ask them why …? (be genuine) Repeat back to them what you have understood. Note their response.

7. “Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:14-16

8. to be continued…