The Longing for the Savior This week, we kick off our new Christmas series, Carols and Cinema of Christmas Unwrapped, with a message titled The Longing for the Savior. As we explore the beloved hymn O Come, O Come, Emmanuel and dive into the timeless story of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, we’ll uncover how both the carol and the movie reflect the deep, universal longing for redemption and hope. Just as the Pevensie siblings long for deliverance from Narnia's eternal winter, we, too, yearn for the Savior to bring light and life into our world. Join us as we reflect on the promises of God, the fulfillment found in Jesus, and the joy of Christmas that breaks through every shadow. This is a message of anticipation, hope, and the ultimate gift of Emmanuel—God with us. Don’t miss this inspiring beginning to the season! Isaiah 9:2 Discussion topics Read Isaiah 9:2. What do you think it means to "see a great light" while walking in darkness? How have you experienced this in your own life? Like Narnia’s “always winter but never Christmas,” we sometimes feel stuck in a season of waiting or longing. What are some areas in your life where you feel like you’re in a perpetual winter? How does the promise of Emmanuel bring hope to those areas? Edmund’s story in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe illustrates the danger of being lured by false promises. What are some “Turkish delights” in our culture that tempt us away from trusting in God’s plans? How can we resist them? ACTION STEP- As a group, discuss one way you can bring hope to someone who feels like they are in a perpetual winter this season. Is there a practical way to show the love of Emmanuel to your community? Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what's next
