Mary: On the Other Side of Disappointment

May 11, 2025

Service: Sunday

  1. Where in your life have you experienced disappointment recently?
  2. Describe a time when something that initially felt like a setback turned out to be a gift?

S – Scripture 

Read aloud: John 20:11–18

Optional: Read Psalm 13; Psalm 34:18 and Isaiah 43:1 as well.

 

O – Observation

  • What do you notice about Mary’s posture and emotions in this story? What stands out to you in how Jesus approaches her?
  • Why do you think she didn’t recognize Jesus right away?
  • Jesus calls her by name. What significance does that hold — for Mary, and for you personally?

 

A – Application

  • In what ways do you identify with Mary’s disappointment or grief in this season of your life?
  • Where do you need to be reminded that Jesus is near, even if you can’t see Him clearly?
  • How have you seen God show up quietly — maybe in ways you didn’t first recognize?
  • How might God be “doing a new thing” (Isaiah 43:19) in your life right now?
  • What does it look like for you to live as someone who has encountered the risen Jesus — even in seasons of discouragement?

 

P – Prayer

Invite group members to silently reflect on this question: “Jesus, where do I need resurrection in my life right now?”

Then: Pray for one another — especially for places of disappointment or grief.

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