Here are some reflection questions for you, your family, C-groups or friends to help you process, discuss and apply this Sundays message.​​

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• How do you relate to Buddy's experience of feeling different or not fitting in? Have you ever felt like you didn't belong somewhere?

• The sermon describes four characteristics of an 'orphan heart': identity confusion, fear of rejection, constant striving, and hyper independence. Which of these resonates most with your own experience?

• What does it mean to you that adoption is always a choice, unlike biological birth? How does this change your perspective on God's love for you?

• Pastor Chris mentioned that religion says 'do good and God will love you' while Christianity says 'God loves you and that's why we do good.' How have you experienced this difference in your own life?

• In what ways do you see our culture promoting 'hyper independence' - the idea that we don't need God or others?

• The sermon lists five changes that occur when we're adopted into God's family. Which of these five gives you the most comfort or hope?

• How does understanding yourself as God's chosen child change the way you view your identity and worth?

• Like the ending of Elf where belief and faith restore Christmas magic, how have you seen faith make a difference in difficult situations in your own life?