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Hidden in Plain Sight: Searching for the Holy Family in the Midst of Our Busy Lives
Beginning November 29, we’ll journey through Pieter Bruegel’s The Census at Bethlehem, discovering how Mary, Joseph, and the Christ Child can be overlooked amid the bustle of ordinary life, and how God continues to appear in unexpected places today.
The Four Weeks
- The Village That Didn’t Notice (Luke 2:1–7): God arrives quietly while the world is preoccupied.
- The People on the Margins Who Did Notice (Luke 2:8–20): the shepherds, the overlooked, the exhausted, the night-shift workers, saw what others missed.
- The Holy Family in the Middle of Real Life (Matthew 2:13–15): the incarnation is not sentimental. It’s gritty, disruptive, and deeply human.
- Making Room: The Practice of Noticing (John 1:14): the Word became flesh and moved into the neighborhood.
How to Participate
- Read the weekly reflection. Each week’s lesson has the study guide, the scripture, and a recording of our Zoom session.
- View the artwork. Spend time with the details of Bruegel’s painting and consider the weekly questions.
- Join the conversation. Share your insights, questions, and responses in the Comments tab on each lesson.
- Pray and reflect. Complete the week’s spiritual practice and carry it with you throughout Advent.
No prior Bible study experience is required. Participate whenever your schedule allows and engage as much or as little as you wish.
Joining the Discussion
Anyone can read the lessons. To comment, create a free account (it takes a minute), and you’ll come right back here. Then open the Comments tab below and say hello. Tell us your name and what you’re hoping to find this Advent.