Unexpected Invitations- Week 1
In this week’s sermon from Shiloh Road Church of Christ, we explore one of the most personal and powerful moments in Scripture: God’s unexpected invitation to Mary in Luke 1. What happens when God calls ordinary people into extraordinary stories? And how do we respond when His plans feel far bigger than our abilities, our confidence, or our expectations? We begin with a simple, relatable moment, an unexpected invitation to a World Series game, and connect it to the much deeper spiritual truth that God is constantly inviting His people into His story. Like Mary, many of us feel unprepared, unqualified, or unsure of how to respond when God calls. Yet over and over throughout Scripture, God begins with grace, not performance. Mary wasn’t chosen because she was strong; she was chosen because God is gracious. In Luke 1, Gabriel’s message reveals a pattern we still see today: Grace comes before calling. God’s presence brings courage. Surrender opens the door for God to work through us. As we look at Mary’s honest question (“How can this be?”) we are reminded that God often calls us into places that don’t make sense on paper. Young families raising children, navigating busy schedules, and trying to build a spiritual foundation for their home often feel this tension deeply. Life is full of appointments, plans, and expectations… yet God gently reorganizes our steps, inviting us into something bigger than our calendar. Mary’s story teaches us that: God’s Spirit overshadows us, strengthens us, and equips us. Not because we have it all together, but because He is faithful. This sermon encourages you to reflect on some important questions: Where is God inviting you to trust Him more deeply? What feels too big, too heavy, or too overwhelming for you right now? How might God’s presence already be overshadowing your life, even in the ordinary moments? For young families searching for a church home, this message is especially meaningful. It reminds us that God works powerfully in ordinary places, in homes, in schools, in workplaces, and in the daily rhythm of raising children. Your faithfulness today, even when it feels small or unseen, can shape generations. Just as Mary’s quiet “yes” changed the world, your everyday obedience matters more than you may ever realize. At Shiloh Road Church of Christ, we believe God is still inviting His people to bring light into the darkness, to carry His presence into their communities, and to live out His story with courage and humility. If you’re looking for a place where your family can grow, belong, and walk alongside others who are trying to follow Jesus, we’d love for you to connect with us. God is able. God is gracious. God is good. And His invitation to you, just like His invitation to Mary, is filled with grace, purpose, and hope. If this message encourages you, helps you reflect, or gives you a new perspective on God’s calling in your life, be sure to subscribe so you can stay connected with future sermons and resources from Shiloh Road Church of Christ.