In this special Advent episode, the Seasoned Mamas discuss waiting, hope, and motherhood through the lens of Mary's journey. Michelle, who is preparing to release her new book "Promised Hope" (coming January 7th), leads the discussion about how Mary's story of waiting and trust can encourage mothers in their seasons of waiting.

Scripture Highlights:

• "I am the Lord's servant. May it be to me as you have said." - Mary's faithful response (Luke 1:38)
• "Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy. He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him." - Psalm 126:5-6
• Mary's Magnificat theme of pondering and treasuring God's works in her heart (Luke 2:19)
• "It is finished" - Jesus' words from the cross (John 19:30)

Episode Highlights:

• The panel reflects on Mary's extraordinary journey from Gabriel's announcement to the foot of the cross
• Each mama shares their current season of waiting:
  • Lindsay discusses a significant ministry transition 
  • Faith courageously shares about loss and new hope 
  • Michelle contemplates changes ahead with her son's upcoming wedding
  • Deb reflects on waiting as an empty nester

Key Discussion Points:

• How Mary's response to Gabriel teaches us about waiting in faith
• The concept of "hope roaring" through difficult circumstances
• Personal stories of God's faithfulness during challenging seasons
• The parallel between Mary's waiting and modern motherhood challenges

Powerful Quotes:

"Hope roars, even when your darkest nightmares become reality." - Michelle

"Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy." - Psalm 126:5-6

Stories of Hope:

The mamas share powerful testimonies of hope, including:

• Lindsay's journey through a challenging first pregnancy to discovering unexpected joy
• Faith's story of loss and new beginnings
• Deb's reflection on watching her children grow through difficult transitions
• Michelle shares a story of how God helped her through medical uncertainties before, during, and after the birth of her son Matthew. 

Biblical Connections:

• Elizabeth and John the Baptist's recognition of Jesus before birth
• The parallel between Mary's waiting and modern mothers' seasons of uncertainty
• The promise that hope does not disappoint us because of Jesus

Resources Mentioned:

• Michelle's upcoming book, "Promised Hope," is available on January 7th. It's available for purchase on Amazon. 
• The first chapter is available for free on CPH's website under the picture of the book, you will see a "look inside." If you click there, you can read the first chapter. Please visit: cph.org/promisedhope

The Seasoned Mamas Podcast supports mothers in all seasons of motherhood, sharing wisdom, encouragement, and authentic conversations about the joys and challenges of raising children in faith.