Several members of our church family get together each week for Bible study and fellowship. These ‘home groups’ provide a relaxed and friendly environment for exploring the Bible, prayer and conversation. Back in the autumn term of 2025, Steve’s home group, who meet on Thursday evenings, were considering what they should study during Advent. A chance conversation in church, with Claire and Robin, about the Franciscan tradition of celebrating the Feast Day of St Francis on the last day of Creationtide, led to a book recommendation, which certainly gave Steve food for thought. This book, ‘Making Room for Christ through Advent’, was written by practising Franciscans and provides a day-by-day journey through advent. Each of the twenty-five days includes a bible verse, a prayer and a reflection, drawing inspiration from the development of Christ in the womb, from conception to birth.

Steve was initially nervous about recommending the book to his homegroup as he was unsure about how the concept of discussing Jesus’ development during Mary’s pregnancy would be received. He need not have worried as his infectious enthusiasm and desire to explore this idea spread to the group. They had not thought about Jesus pre-birth before, and they appreciated the opportunity to reflect on the deeply human experiences associated with Mary’s pregnancy and Jesus’ birth. Steve greatly enjoyed leading the study sessions, taking on the discipline of preparation, exploring the Bible, cross referencing verses and learning more about the Old Testament prophecies that have been fulfilled through Jesus.

Mary had a unique awareness of Jesus’ humanity as she experienced his life from its earliest moments. She was the chosen, faithful and willing means by which God became human in Jesus, enabling Him to show His sacrificial love to humanity, providing forgiveness for our sins and offering the gift of eternal life. In Steve’s words “If Mary, a young Jewish girl, gave up her own plans and reputation to “make room” for Jesus, then we too should make space in our lives for Him, taking time to listen to His will.”