IMPACT Recap

Let It Happen

December 19, 2022 · 0:44:32

FaithObediencePurpose

Recap

Guest Speaker Chris Durso opened the service with praise and honor for Jesus and the leadership of Impact Church. He then preached from Luke 1:26-38, focusing on Mary's response to the angel Gabriel's announcement. Pastor Chris emphasized that Mary's simple, surrendered response—'let it happen'—is a powerful model for all believers. He taught that God's favor and calling are not limited by age, timing, or circumstance, as illustrated by both the young Mary and her older cousin Elizabeth. The message addressed two common reactions to God's call: fear and unchecked excitement. For those who are fearful, he encouraged acknowledging those feelings to God without letting them stop faithful obedience. For those excited, he warned against turning God's gifts into platforms for self-promotion, reminding everyone that spiritual gifts are given to serve others and point to God's greatness. The sermon concluded with a call to end the year in a posture of surrender, trusting that the Holy Spirit empowers us for our God-given assignments, and an invitation for salvation and recommitment.

Main Points

  • God's favor and calling are not limited by our age, timing, or perceived readiness, as He works in all seasons of life.
  • A surrendered life, modeled by Mary's response 'let it happen,' is the proper posture for receiving and fulfilling God's assignment.
  • Spiritual gifts are given not for self-promotion but to serve others and direct all glory and praise to God.

Verses Mentioned

  • Luke 1:26-38 - "Six months after Elizabeth knew she was to become a mother, Gabriel was sent from God to Nazareth. Nazareth was a town in the country of Galilee. He went to a woman who had never had a man. Her name was Mary. Mary was promised in marriage to a man named Joseph. Joseph was of the family of David. The angel came to her and said, 'You are honored very much. You are a favored woman. The Lord is with you. You are chosen from among many women.' When she saw the angel, she was troubled at his words. She thought about what had been said. The angel said to her, 'Mary, do not be afraid. You have found favor with God. See, you are to become a mother and have a Son. You are to give Him the name Jesus. He will be great. He will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give Him the place where His early father David sat. He will be King over the family of Jacob forever. His nation will have no end.' Mary said to the angel, 'How will this happen? I have never had a man.' The angel said to her, 'The Holy Spirit will come on you. The power of the Most High will cover you. The holy Child you give birth to will be called the Son of God. See, your cousin Elizabeth, as old as she is, is going to give birth to a child. She was not able to have children before, but now she is in her sixth month. For God can do all things.' Mary said, 'I am willing to be used of the Lord. Let it happen to me as you have said.' Then the angel went away from her." (NLV)
  • Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." (NIV)
  • Matthew 1:23 - "“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”)." (NIV)

Daily Action Plan

Monday

Scripture Reflection: Luke 1:38 (NIV) - 'I am the Lord’s servant,' Mary answered. 'May your word to me be fulfilled.'

Focus Point: The posture of surrender.

Action Plan: Identify one area of your life (a plan, a relationship, a fear) where you need to say 'let it happen' to God. Write it down.

Deep Prayer: Lord, today I choose a posture of surrender. Help me to trust Your plan over my own. May Your will be done in my life.

Tuesday

Scripture Reflection: Luke 1:37 (NIV) - 'For no word from God will ever fail.'

Focus Point: God's faithfulness beyond our timing.

Action Plan: Reflect on a promise from God you feel has been delayed. Write down one reason from the sermon why His timing is perfect.

Deep Prayer: God, I thank You that You have no expiration date on blessing. Help me to trust Your perfect timing, even when I don't understand.

Wednesday

Scripture Reflection: Romans 12:1 (NIV) - 'Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.'

Focus Point: Living as a submitted servant.

Action Plan: Perform one act of service today without seeking recognition or praise. Let it be an offering to God alone.

Deep Prayer: Jesus, I offer myself to You as a living sacrifice. Use my hands, my words, and my heart to serve others for Your glory today.

Thursday

Scripture Reflection: 1 Corinthians 12:7 (NIV) - 'Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.'

Focus Point: The purpose of spiritual gifts.

Action Plan: Identify one spiritual gift you believe God has given you. Find one practical way to use it to build up someone else this week.

Deep Prayer: Holy Spirit, thank You for the gifts You've placed in me. Show me how to use them not for myself, but to serve others and point them to You.

Friday

Scripture Reflection: Psalm 55:22 (NIV) - 'Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.'

Focus Point: Bringing our fears to God.

Action Plan: Be honest with God about a fear or anxiety related to your calling or assignment. Speak or write it out in prayer.

Deep Prayer: Father, I bring my fear of __________ to You. I choose not to let it stop me from being faithful. I rest in Your presence and promise to sustain me.

Saturday

Scripture Reflection: John 3:30 (NIV) - 'He must become greater; I must become less.'

Focus Point: Shifting focus from self to Savior.

Action Plan: Before attending church, prepare your heart by asking God to help you worship Him for who He is, not for what you get out of the service.

Deep Prayer: God, You are great all by Yourself. As I prepare to worship, let my heart's cry be that You increase and I decrease. Be glorified in my life.

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