The Woman of the Seed (I Samuel 2:1-10 | Luke 1:46-55)

Mary is the long awaited woman of the seed, who must let go of her son if he is to conquer the serpent and save his people.

• The World Samuel Was Born Into (1 Samuel 1:1-28)

• Hannah’s Prayer (1 Samuel 2:1-10)

• Same Prayer, Different Woman (Luke 1:46-55)

Discussion Starters

Monday—What is so significant about Genesis 3:15? What is God promising? Who is the promised Seed?

Tuesday—What was going on in the world that Samuel was born into? (1 Samuel 2:12-36) How does that reality help us understand Hannah’s prayer?

Wednesday—What would have happened if Hannah didn’t let go of Samuel? Do you think you could let go of your child to help others?

Thursday—Do you think Mary was aware that she was praying an almost identical prayer to what Hannah prayed? What does that tell us about her understanding of her calling as a mother?

Friday—In what ways do Hannah and Mary serve as models for us? What does it mean to live sacrificially? Where should we seek comfort?