THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER Bible Reading PlanSample

Have you ever felt like you didn’t belong or that others couldn’t see past your flaws?

In THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER, Imogene Herdman is the last person anyone would expect to play Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the town’s Christmas Pageant. She’s never been to church, doesn’t know the story of Jesus’ birth, and frankly, most people are afraid of her. Yet, for some reason, she’s drawn to this role.

While the townspeople can’t see past Imogene’s rough exterior, she sees this opportunity as a chance to be someone different. Though she struggles with doubts about whether she’s fit to play Mary, she’s determined to try.

Beth sees something deeper in Imogene. She realizes that Mary, the mother of Jesus, wasn’t chosen because she fit a particular mold, but because she was willing to say “yes” to God, despite the challenges and fears. Beth begins to understand that Imogene’s courage to take on this role reflects the very heart of the Christmas story—that God often chooses the most unlikely people for the most important tasks.

God sees potential in each of us, even when others don’t. There’s a place for everyone in God’s story, and sometimes, the very qualities that make us feel unqualified are what make us perfect for the role God has for us.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS

• Have you ever felt like you didn’t fit in or weren’t accepted by others? How can you find your place in God’s plan, even when you feel like an outsider?
• How can you open your heart to others who may feel like they don’t belong? What can you do to make them feel valued and included in your community?
• What does it mean to you that God often chooses unlikely people for important tasks? How might this perspective change the way you view yourself and others?