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O Holy Night is one of the most beloved and powerful Christmas carols, filled with profound theological meaning and rich historical significance. In his recent message, Pastor Rich Dennison took us on a journey through the song’s history and scriptural foundation, urging us to reflect on the transformative power of Christ’s birth.

The Meaning and Legacy of “O Holy Night” – A Message from Pastor Rich Dennison

Rich and Zoe started the message by singing O Holy Night.

O Holy night! The stars are brightly shining
It is the night of our dear Savior’s birth
Long lay the world in sin and error pining
‘Til He appeared and the soul felt its worth
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn

Fall on your knees; O hear the Angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born
O night, O Holy night, O night divine!

Led by the light of Faith serenely beaming
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming
Here come the Wise Men from Orient land
The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger
In all our trials born to be our friend
He knows our need, to our weakness is no stranger
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend

Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His Gospel is Peace
Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother
And in His name, all oppression shall cease
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we
Let all within us Praise His Holy name
Christ is the Lord; O praise His name forever!
His power and glory evermore proclaim
His power and glory evermore proclaim

The History of “O Holy Night”

The origins of O Holy Night date back to 1847 when French poet Placide Cappeau was asked by a priest to write a poem for Christmas Mass. Although Cappeau was not a regular churchgoer at the time, he was inspired by the birth of Jesus and wrote the poem Cantique de Noël. The music, composed by Adolphe Charles Adam, was added shortly after, and the carol quickly became popular in France.

However, when church leaders discovered that Cappeau had left the church and joined a socialist movement, and that Adam was Jewish, they rejected the song for being unsuitable for religious services. Despite this rejection, the people of France continued to sing it in their homes and gatherings. It wasn’t until an American writer, John Sullivan Dwight, encountered the song and appreciated its message of freedom and equality—especially the third verse—that O Holy Night gained significant popularity in the United States, particularly during the Civil War.

The song’s enduring power reminds us that God’s truth cannot be contained or confined, even when people try to reject it. It echoes the way Jesus’ message of hope and redemption broke through the barriers of culture, politics, and time, continuing to inspire generations.

A Song of Peace and Hope

One of the most remarkable moments in the history of O Holy Night occurred during the Franco-Prussian War in 1871. As soldiers from both sides were locked in intense combat, a French soldier began singing Cantique de Noël. In response, a German soldier sang From Heaven Above to Earth I Come, and miraculously, the fighting ceased for 24 hours in a temporary truce. This act of solidarity and peace, sparked by the Christmas spirit, showed the power of this carol to transcend national borders and bring about reconciliation.

This historical moment is a powerful reminder of the impact Christ’s peace can have even in the most divided situations. It’s not just a peace that ends wars but a peace that starts within the human heart, reconciling us to God and to one another.

The Scriptural Foundations of “O Holy Night”

Pastor Rich emphasized that each line of O Holy Night is steeped in scriptural truth, pointing us back to the heart of the gospel message. The opening line, “O holy night, the stars are brightly shining, it is the night of our dear Savior’s birth,” echoes the biblical account in Luke 2:8-9, where an angel announces the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, surrounded by a heavenly display of light. This moment in history marked the fulfillment of God’s promise of a Savior. The brightness of the stars that night symbolized the dawning of a new era, the arrival of God’s perfect light in the world.

Luke 2:8-9 (NIV):

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.”

The line “Long lay the world in sin and error pining, till He appeared and the soul felt its worth” reflects the reality of the world’s longing for redemption, a theme that runs through Romans 8:22 where Paul describes the groaning of creation, waiting for the glory to come. This longing for salvation is fulfilled in Christ, whose birth signals the beginning of God’s redemptive plan for humanity.

Romans 8:22 (NIV):

“We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.”

The imagery of a weary world rejoicing resonates with the message of Isaiah 9:2, where the prophet spoke of a great light coming to those who walked in darkness. In the birth of Jesus, that light came into the world, offering joy and hope to those who had been longing for redemption.

Isaiah 9:2 (NIV):

“The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of deep darkness, a light has dawned.”

In the verse, “A thrill of hope, the weary world rejoices, for yonder breaks a new and glorious morn,” Pastor Rich reminded us of the hope that Christ’s birth brought into a broken world. The “new and glorious morn” points to the promise of a future glory, as seen in Romans 8:19-21 and Romans 13:12, when believers look forward to the return of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s kingdom. Christ’s first coming began the work of restoration, but His second coming will bring its completion, when God’s perfect peace and justice will reign.

Romans 8:19-21 (NIV):

“For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.”

Romans 13:12 (NIV):

“The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”

A Call to Worship

The most powerful part of the song, according to Pastor Rich, is the call to worship in the chorus: “Fall on your knees, oh hear the angel voices. O night divine, O night when Christ was born.” This is a direct invitation to respond to Christ’s birth with awe and reverence. The scripture Philippians 2:10-11 declares that every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. It is not only the angels who worshiped Him that night, but all of creation is called to worship the Savior.

Philippians 2:10-11 (NIV):

“That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

In our own lives, this moment of worship is not only one of gratitude but also of surrender. As we bow before Christ, we acknowledge His sovereignty, His lordship, and the transformative power of His presence. Just as the shepherds knelt before Him in humility, so too must we approach Him with reverence and awe, allowing His light to shine in the darkest corners of our hearts.

The Call to Love and Proclaim Christ’s Name

Pastor Rich also explored the deeper message of love and peace found in the second verse of O Holy Night, which speaks of Jesus’ mission on earth. The line “In all our trials born to be our friend, He knows our need, and our weakness is no stranger” reminds us that Jesus entered into the human experience, fully understanding our struggles. Hebrews 4:15 affirms that Jesus is a high priest who sympathizes with our weaknesses because He lived through them, yet without sin.

Hebrews 4:15 (NIV):

“For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin.”

In His humility, Jesus came to serve and to show us how to love and serve others. This love is not abstract but demonstrated in action—by laying down His life for us. It’s the kind of love that calls us to imitate Him, serving those in need and offering hope to the hopeless.

Jesus came to bring peace, as reflected in the third verse: “Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother, and in His name all oppression shall cease.” This line connects to Romans 13:10, where Paul writes that love fulfills the law, and Ephesians 2:17, where Christ is described as preaching peace to bring Jews and Gentiles together. Pastor Rich emphasized that Christ’s mission was to break the chains of sin and oppression, offering freedom and reconciliation to all.

Romans 13:10 (NIV):

“Love does no harm to a neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law.”

Ephesians 2:17 (NIV):

“He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near.”

The promise of breaking chains is not limited to physical slavery, but to the bondage of sin that holds humanity captive. Jesus offers freedom from guilt, shame, and despair. Through His sacrifice on the cross, He broke the chains that bind us and made a way for us to experience true liberty in Him.

Living Out the Message of “O Holy Night”

As Pastor Rich concluded, O Holy Night is more than just a beautiful Christmas carol; it is a call to action. The carol ends with a declaration to “Praise His name forever, His power and glory evermore proclaim.” In Colossians 3:16, Paul encourages believers to let the word of Christ dwell in them richly, teaching and admonishing each other with songs, hymns, and spiritual songs. We are called to worship Christ with our lives, proclaiming His power and glory in every word and deed.

Colossians 3:16 (NIV):

“Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.”

As we reflect on the message of O Holy Night, may it inspire us not only to celebrate Christ’s birth but to live out the truth of His love, peace, and redemption every day.

by Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA

This past Sunday, Pastor Zoe Hatcher delivered a rich and moving sermon as part of the Carols of the Coming series. Drawing inspiration from the ancient hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” Pastor Zoe took us on a journey through scripture and history, showing how this beautiful song ties together the prophetic anticipation of Christ’s first coming, the unity of the church across generations, and our longing for His return.

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: A Timeless Call for Christ’s Presence

“‘O Come, O Come, Emmanuel’ is one of the oldest hymns we sing during the Christmas season,” Pastor Zoe began. “It dates back to the 9th century, written in Latin during a period when much of church life was steeped in monastic tradition.” She explained that its original form included seven sentences, or antiphons—short phrases sung before biblical psalms or canticles—designed to prepare believers’ hearts in the seven days leading up to Christmas.

O come, O come, Immanuel,
and ransom captive Israel
that mourns in lonely exile here
until the Son of God appear.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.

O come, O Wisdom from on high,
who ordered all things mightily;
to us the path of knowledge show
and teach us in its ways to go.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.

O come, O come, great Lord of might,
who to your tribes on Sinai’s height
in ancient times did give the law
in cloud and majesty and awe.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.

O come, O Branch of Jesse’s stem,
unto your own and rescue them!
From depths of hell your people save,
and give them victory o’er the grave.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.

O come, O Key of David, come
and open wide our heavenly home.
Make safe for us the heavenward road
and bar the way to death’s abode.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.

O come, O Bright and Morning Star,
and bring us comfort from afar!
Dispel the shadows of the night
and turn our darkness into light.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.

O come, O King of nations, bind
in one the hearts of all mankind.
Bid all our sad divisions cease
and be yourself our King of Peace.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Immanuel
shall come to you, O Israel.

A Hymn Rooted in History

These antiphons each invoked a name or title for Jesus, including O Sapienta (Wisdom), O Adonai (Lord), O Radix Jesse (Root of Jesse), O Clavis David (Key of David), O Oriens (Dayspring), O Rex (King), and finally, O Emmanuel (God with us). “When read backward, the first letters of these names spell ‘SARCORE,’ a Latin acrostic that declares, ‘Tomorrow, He will be present.’” Pastor Zoe marveled at the way this liturgical riddle reflected the monks’ anticipation of Christ’s birth.

Rooted in Old Testament Prophecy

One of the hymn’s most profound messages is how it centers us in the Old Testament prophecies of Christ’s coming. “The hymn is full of references to the Messiah,” Pastor Zoe explained. “It teaches us to see the Old Testament as God’s unfolding plan to prepare us for Jesus.”

For instance, she highlighted Isaiah 7:14, which says:
“Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Emmanuel.”

This prophecy from Isaiah reminds us of the miraculous nature of Christ’s birth—a Savior born of a virgin, destined to be “God with us.” Zoe added, “This hymn invites us to reflect on these truths and helps us to remain rooted in God’s promises.”

Moving to Isaiah 11:1-2, she elaborated on the stanza that calls Jesus the “Rod of Jesse”:
“A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord.”

“Jesse was King David’s father,” Pastor Zoe explained. “Jesus is the fulfillment of this prophecy, coming from the lineage of David, yet also the Creator of that lineage. He is both the root and the branch—God and man, the source and the fulfillment.”

The hymn also celebrates Jesus as the “Key of David,” referencing Revelation 3:7-8:
“To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. I know your deeds. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. I know that you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.”

“Jesus holds the keys to salvation,” Pastor Zoe reminded us. “With His death and resurrection, He opened the door to eternal life for us—a door no one can close.”

Rooted in Church History

The hymn not only grounds us in scripture but also connects us to the rich history of the church. “It’s incredible to think that this hymn, written in the 9th century, has been sung by millions of Christians across nations, languages, and centuries,” Pastor Zoe said. She drew from Ephesians 1:9-10, which speaks to the unity of all things under Christ:
“He made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment—to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.”

“The hymns we sing today are not just songs,” she continued. “They’re acts of worship that connect us with believers past and present. They’re a reminder that our faith unites us as the body of Christ, transcending time and space.”

Zoe also quoted 1 Peter 1:10-12, reflecting on the prophets’ anticipation of Christ’s coming:
“Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care, trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of the Messiah and the glories that would follow. It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.”

“What a beautiful thought,” Pastor Zoe mused. “That even the angels were eager to see God’s plan unfold, and yet God chose to reveal these truths to us—His church, His bride.”

A Timeless Longing

Above all, this hymn speaks of longing—not only for Christ’s birth but also for His return. As Pastor Zoe put it, “‘O Come, O Come, Emmanuel’ isn’t just about remembering that Jesus came; it’s about yearning for Him to come again.”

This yearning, she explained, is captured in Acts 10:42, where Peter declares:
“He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead.”

“Even as we celebrate Jesus’ first coming,” Pastor Zoe reminded us, “we’re called to live in expectation of His return. And in this season of Advent, we sing with hope and anticipation, ‘O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.’”

O Come, O Come, Emmanuel: A Timeless Call for Christ’s Presence

Continuing the theme of Advent and the anticipation of Christ’s coming, Pastor Zoe Hatcher emphasized the deep difference between nostalgia and expectancy in our faith. “Nostalgia is a longing for what was,” she said, “but expectancy is a hope—a hope for what is to come. It’s an excitement for the future.”

Living with Expectancy

Pastor Zoe explained that expectancy comes from a place of recognition that we do not yet have everything we need or desire. “Expectancy is about living in the middle of longing. It’s the anticipation that what we’re waiting for will come, and it will be better than what we have now.” This message, she said, aligns perfectly with the repeated cry of “O come, O come, Emmanuel.” We are not just reflecting on the past or wishing for what we once had; we are actively waiting for Christ to return, bringing the fullness of His kingdom.

This sense of expectancy, she noted, is one filled with hope. It’s not a passive waiting but an active longing for the fulfillment of God’s promises. The hymn “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” is a repeated declaration of faith: “We want You to come. We believe that You will come.” This belief is rooted in the hope that Jesus will indeed return to make all things right, to wipe away every tear, and to restore the brokenness of the world.

Pastor Zoe referenced Revelation 21:2-7, a passage that describes the glorious future where Christ’s kingdom will fully be established, and all things will be made new:

“I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Look, God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and He will dwell with them. They will be His people, and God Himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’
He who was seated on the throne said, ‘I am making everything new!’ Then He said, ‘Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.’
He said to me, ‘It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God, and they will be My children.'”

“What a promise!” Pastor Zoe exclaimed. “Jesus is coming, and when He does, He will make everything right. Do we believe that today?” The imagery in this scripture paints a picture of perfect restoration—no more pain, no more tears, no more death. All will be made new.

Longing for Home

The theme of longing, especially in the context of the holiday season, was woven throughout Pastor Zoe’s message. She referred to a beautiful definition of nostalgia as “longing for home.” “At Christmastime, we often experience this longing for home,” she said, “whether it’s the warmth of familiar faces, the comfort of family traditions, or the smell of a home-cooked meal. These moments make us feel connected to something deeper, something we desire and yearn for.”

She asked the congregation, “Are we longing for our true home? Are we longing for Christ’s return, the ultimate fulfillment of that homecoming?” Pastor Zoe shared that this hymn, with its repeated cry of “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” echoes the deep longing of our 

souls for that perfect, eternal home with Christ.

This longing for home is not just about nostalgia for the past, but about the hope of an eternal, unshakeable future with God. Pastor Zoe connected this idea to Philippians 3:20-21, where Paul writes:
“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables Him to bring everything under His control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like His glorious body.”

“We were made for a different kind of home, a home where we are fully known, fully loved, and made whole,” she explained. “That is our true home, and that is the hope we hold on to—Jesus will come and take us home to be with Him.”

Living in the Tension of the Now and the Not Yet

Pastor Zoe then transitioned to reflect on the tension that believers live in: we are caught between the “already” of Christ’s first coming and the “not yet” of His return. We can see the Kingdom of God at work in the world today, but we are not yet experiencing its fullness. “We are living in the in-between,” she said. “We know what Jesus did on the cross, and we know that He will return to fully restore all things. But right now, we are waiting, longing, hoping.”

She acknowledged the brokenness that many of us face in our lives, from personal struggles to societal challenges. These experiences of brokenness serve as constant reminders that we are not yet whole, that we are waiting for Christ’s return to make all things right. Yet in the midst of this, there is also a call to participate in bringing God’s Kingdom here and now, through love, justice, and faithfulness.

In closing, Pastor Zoe emphasized the idea of communion as a way of reflecting on this tension. “As we come to the table today,” she said, “we remember both Christ’s first coming and the promise of His second. We’re in the in-between, but we are not left without hope.” She invited the congregation to take part in communion, a tangible reminder of Christ’s sacrifice, while also looking forward to the day when we will feast with Him in the fullness of His Kingdom.

“We can sing this hymn, not just at Christmastime but all year long, as an act of expectancy and longing,” Pastor Zoe concluded. “We can sing it with the hope that our true home is coming, and that one day, we will be with Jesus face to face. So, as we prepare our hearts for communion, let us reflect on the home we long for—the home we were created for, and the home that Jesus is preparing for us.”

With hearts full of anticipation, the worship team led the congregation in a time of communion, and the congregation sang O Come Come Emmanuel together, encouraging everyone to reflect on the promises of Christ’s return and the hope of being with Him forever.

At Open Arms Community Church in Bradford, PA, Pastor Rich Dennison recently launched a powerful sermon series, Carols of the Coming. This series delves into the rich history and deeper meanings of beloved Christmas carols, connecting their timeless lyrics to scripture and faith. Kicking off with “Joy to the World,” Pastor Rich explored the carol’s profound ties to both the Advent season and the hope of Christ’s return.

Pastor Rich and Pastor Zoe kicked off the sermon by singing Joy to the World together.

Joy To The World By Isaac Watts

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare him room,
And heaven and nature sing,
And heaven, and heaven, and nature sing.

Joy to the world! the Saviour reigns;
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.

The Origins of “Joy to the World”

Pastor Rich began by explaining the background of this iconic hymn. Written in 1719 by English minister and hymnist Isaac Watts, “Joy to the World” was initially a poem inspired by Psalm 98 and Genesis 3. It was not intended as a Christmas carol but as a celebration of Christ’s second coming.

Watts’s lyrics were part of his collection The Psalms of David Imitated in the Language of the New Testament, reflecting his Christological interpretation of Old Testament texts. In this context, “Joy to the World” focuses not on the birth of Jesus but on His future reign over a restored creation, where sin and sorrow no longer exist.

Biblical Foundations

To help the congregation better understand the hymn’s scriptural basis, Pastor Rich read several key passages during his sermon.

Psalm 98

“Joy to the World” draws heavily from Psalm 98, a psalm that calls all creation to rejoice in the Lord’s coming. Pastor Rich read the entire psalm, pointing out how its themes align with the carol’s joyful anticipation:

Psalm 98 (NIV):
Sing to the Lord a new song,
for he has done marvelous things;
his right hand and his holy arm
have worked salvation for him.

The Lord has made his salvation known
and revealed his righteousness to the nations.
He has remembered his love
and his faithfulness to Israel;
all the ends of the earth
have seen the salvation of our God.

Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth,
burst into jubilant song with music;
make music to the Lord with the harp,
with the harp and the sound of singing,
with trumpets and the blast of the ram’s horn—
shout for joy before the Lord, the King.

Let the sea resound, and everything in it,
the world, and all who live in it.
Let the rivers clap their hands,
let the mountains sing together for joy;
let them sing before the Lord,
for he comes to judge the earth.

He will judge the world in righteousness
and the peoples with equity.

Genesis 3:17-19

The line in “Joy to the World,” “Far as the curse is found,” connects directly to Genesis 3. Pastor Rich explained how this passage describes the curse placed on creation after Adam and Eve’s sin, a curse that Christ came to break:

Genesis 3:17-19 (NIV):
To Adam he said, “Because you listened to your wife and ate fruit from the tree about which I commanded you, ‘You must not eat from it,’

“Cursed is the ground because of you;
through painful toil you will eat food from it
all the days of your life.
It will produce thorns and thistles for you,
and you will eat the plants of the field.
By the sweat of your brow
you will eat your food
until you return to the ground,
since from it you were taken;
for dust you are
and to dust you will return.”

Pastor Rich reflected on the weight of this passage, calling it one of the most heartbreaking moments in scripture. However, he reminded the congregation of the hope embedded within it—the promise of a Savior who would ultimately crush the serpent’s head and restore creation.

Advent: A Season of Hope and Preparation

The Advent season, as Rich reminded the congregation, is about preparing for both the celebration of Christ’s birth and the anticipation of His second coming. While the word “Advent” itself does not appear in scripture, its themes are woven throughout the Bible.

Pastor Rich called on everyone to reflect during this season, asking, “Are we ready?” Just as the lyrics of “Joy to the World” celebrate Christ’s future reign, the Advent season invites us to clear out spiritual clutter and make room for Him in our hearts.

Deeper Reading on Advent

Rich encouraged everyone to dig deeper into the meaning of Advent by exploring scripture references such as Isaiah 9, Luke 1-2, and Revelation 21. These passages highlight the anticipation of Christ’s coming, both in the context of His birth and His future reign.

A Word of Hope: We Know How the Story Ends

Pastor Rich Dennison’s message continued with a reminder of the ultimate hope embedded in the Advent season. While we face challenges and brokenness in this world, the promise of Jesus’ return assures us that the story doesn’t end here. Pastor Rich emphasized, “Our King will bring a final and lasting justice and joy to this world.”

Through the carol “Joy to the World,” we are called to celebrate this future reality: that Christ will one day rule the world with truth and grace, revealing the wonders of His great love. This is the profound message behind the words we sing.

The Promise of Revelation

Pastor Rich highlighted the powerful promise found in Revelation 1:7-8:

Revelation 1:7-8 (NIV):
Look, he is coming with the clouds,
and every eye will see him,
even those who pierced him;
and all peoples on earth will mourn because of him.
So shall it be! Amen.

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God,
“who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”

This passage reminds us of Christ’s triumphant return—a moment that will transform all creation. Pastor Rich urged the congregation to live with this eternal perspective, embracing the hope and joy that Advent brings.

The Fulfillment of God’s Plan

Reflecting on God’s redemptive plan, Pastor Rich reminded us of His love and foresight. He said, “Even before you placed the curse all the way back into the beginning, you had a plan.” From Genesis to Revelation, the story of God’s relationship with humanity is one of redemption, culminating in the arrival of Jesus as our Savior and His promise to come again.

Pastor Rich emphasized how Jesus, through His life, death, and resurrection, reconciled us to God. He also reminded the congregation of the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus sent as our guide and advocate until His return:

“Do not worry. I’m sending an advocate in my place until I come back.”

As Advent continues, the message remains clear: We rejoice not only in Jesus’ birth but also in the hope of His glorious return. With this assurance, we are called to live joyfully, lovingly, and with a heart set on spreading His light to a world in need.

As followers of Jesus, how can we live a life that intuitively reflects the Kingdom of God? Pastor Zoe Hatcher explored this question in the final message of Open Arms Church’s Kingdom Encounter series. By reflecting on scripture and personal stories, she unpacked how believers can bring the Kingdom of God into their daily lives through faith, trust, and obedience to the Holy Spirit.

Let’s dive into her teaching, examining how we can embrace prayerful rhythms, surrender our plans, and embody the Kingdom life.

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Moving with the Rhythm of the Kingdom

Pastor Zoe Hatcher began her sermon by recapping the series’ core teachings. The Kingdom of God is not just a distant ideal but a reality we are called to bring into our communities. “We first move into the neighborhood as Jesus did,” she said, referencing John 1:14, where the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. Just as Christ physically entered our world, believers are called to live among others with the heart and posture of Jesus.

One of the key themes Zoe emphasized was the need for an intuitive way of living the Kingdom life. This intuition, she explained, is akin to how we instinctively breathe or get dressed in the morning. “What if we could live the Kingdom life in an intuitive way, as natural as breathing?” she asked.

To cultivate this kind of life, Zoe stressed the importance of trust. “For us to live this life of Kingdom encounter every day intuitively, we must learn to trust God, to lean on Him in faith, being certain that His Holy Spirit is faithfully working in and through us,” she said.

Scripture Calls Us to Trust

Zoe grounded this teaching in James 4:13–17 (NIV):

“Now listen, you who say, ‘Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.’ Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, ‘If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.’”

This passage reminds believers to hold their plans loosely, allowing God to direct their steps. “Are you willing for your plans to be interruptible?” Zoe challenged. “Are you ready to surrender everything—your life, your career, your ambitions—to God’s plans?”

A Personal Testimony of Faith

Pastor Zoe shared a deeply personal story to illustrate what it looks like to live in surrender. Early in her marriage to her husband Josh, God began prompting her heart about having children, even though they were both still in college. Initially resistant, Zoe sought confirmation through prayer and waited for God to speak to Josh as well.

“Eventually, God began to work on Josh’s heart too,” Zoe recounted. “It seemed like everywhere we turned, God was reminding us that children are a blessing.” When they finally surrendered to God’s timing, they were blessed not just with one child, but twins.

Through this story, Zoe demonstrated the fruit of trusting God’s plans over her own. She asked the congregation, “What would it look like if we held our lives and plans loosely, open to the Lord, saying, ‘My life is not mine; it’s Yours’?”

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Embracing Prayerful Rhythms

Living the Kingdom life also involves cultivating rhythms of prayer. Pastor Zoe pointed to the example of the early church in Acts 4:23–31. After Peter and John were released from prison, they returned to their community and immediately engaged in united prayer.

“Sovereign Lord,” they prayed, “You made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them… Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable Your servants to speak Your word with great boldness” (Acts 4:24, 29, NIV).

Zoe highlighted how this prayer acknowledged God’s sovereignty and invited His power to work through them. “The early church knew that prayer wasn’t just a discipline—it was their lifeline,” she said.

Prayer Fuels Boldness

The church’s response to persecution wasn’t fear or retreat; it was boldness. They prayed for courage to continue proclaiming the gospel despite opposition. “When life gets real, do we turn to prayer like the early church did?” Zoe asked. “Or do we try to handle things in our own strength?”

Zoe encouraged the congregation to develop their own prayerful rhythms, seeking God daily for guidance, strength, and boldness. “Prayer aligns us with God’s will and reminds us that we are not alone in this mission,” she said.

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Surrendering Control to God

Returning to the theme of surrender, Pastor Zoe challenged believers to let go of their need for control. “I know it’s hard for planners like me,” she admitted. “But we must learn to trust that God’s plans are always better than ours.”

She emphasized that surrender doesn’t mean living without intention or preparation. Instead, it means being open to God’s leading and willing to adjust when He redirects us.

Living in Rhythm with the Holy Spirit

The Kingdom life is not about striving but about walking in step with the Holy Spirit. Zoe likened it to dancing with a partner. “We have to let the Holy Spirit lead,” she said. “It’s about moving in rhythm with Him, learning to live His way every day.”

This kind of life requires faith, humility, and a willingness to listen. “Are we willing to make the shifts God is calling us to?” Zoe asked. “If we do, our lives will not only change, but they will reflect His Kingdom in powerful ways.”

Drawing from Acts 17:22-31 (NIV), Pastor Zoe reflects on the Apostle Paul’s encounter with the people of Athens and the profound lessons it offers for modern believers. She challenges her audience to consider how they, too, can listen to God’s voice, adapt to their circumstances, and prune away distractions to follow His lead.

Embracing Holy Spirit-Led Conversations

Pastor Zoe began by unpacking Paul’s powerful speech at the Areopagus. In a city filled with idols, Paul found common ground with the Athenians by referencing their own altar inscribed, “To an unknown God” (Acts 17:23). He then introduced them to the true Creator, explaining that, “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands” (Acts 17:24).

Using this passage, Pastor Zoe emphasized the importance of engaging people where they are—both physically and spiritually. Paul modeled this by using cultural references, even quoting their poets: “For in him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). Pastor Zoe posed an essential question: “Are we willing to let God creatively move us in the moment to speak to people in ways they understand?”

She urged her audience to rely on the Holy Spirit to guide their interactions, reminding them that evangelism isn’t about personal comfort or preferences but about meeting people where they are. “It’s not necessarily about what we like and what we’re comfortable with because we know Jesus. It’s about allowing the Holy Spirit to show us the way to reach others,” she said.

Navigating Change Through God’s Guidance

Drawing a parallel to Paul’s adaptability, Pastor Zoe reflected on her church’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic—a time of unprecedented disruption. She recounted how they prayerfully sought God’s direction as they navigated rapidly changing guidelines. With creativity and reliance on the Holy Spirit, they found new ways to minister, such as outdoor worship and online gatherings. “We never stopped preaching the Word of God,” she declared.

This season became a time of spiritual refinement for the church, leading them to reevaluate longstanding traditions and programs. Inspired by the book Letters to the Church by Francis Chan, they embraced a period of pruning. Pastor Zoe explained, “The way we were doing things was wonderful then, but they didn’t fit anymore in a completely new era. God called us to pack light for the journey.”

This metaphor of packing light resonated deeply. Just as travelers shed unnecessary baggage to navigate difficult terrain, believers must release anything that hinders their spiritual journey. “Not everybody likes change,” Pastor Zoe admitted, “but when God says, ‘Drop it and run with me,’ we trust Him.”

Developing the Discipline of Listening Prayer

A key practice for living the intuitive life, Pastor Zoe explained, is Listening Prayer. This discipline involves intentionally asking God two simple questions:

1. “Lord, what do you want me to know right now?”
2. “What do you want me to do?”

Pastor Zoe shared how she incorporates these questions into her daily journaling and Scripture reading. She encouraged the congregation to quiet their minds and hearts, making room to hear God’s voice. “It’s just that simple,” she said. “Quiet your mind, and when you begin to hear a response—whether it’s a word, an image, or a sense—press in and ask Him for more.”

To demonstrate, she led the congregation in a brief moment of silence, encouraging them to listen for God’s voice. “If we truly believe that God is living and active today, then why aren’t we applying it?” she asked. She challenged everyone to write down what they hear from God, as a way to remember and act on His guidance.

Creating Space for God

Pastor Zoe acknowledged that making time for quiet reflection can feel impossible amidst the busyness of life. However, she reminded the congregation that God empowers believers to prune distractions and create margin. “If you’ve crowded out all the room to hear from God, ask yourself some hard questions: What am I doing with my time, my energy, my resources?”

She shared that her clearest moments of hearing God come during hikes or runs in nature—times when the noise of the world is replaced by the sound of creation. She encouraged others to identify their own “listening places” and prioritize time there.

Zoe said: “The most simple adjustment we can make is to cut out the things we don’t need. Start saying no to the things that don’t align with what God is calling you to do.”

Applying the Intuitive Life

Living the intuitive life requires surrender, adaptability, and trust. Pastor Zoe’s message, rooted in Paul’s example and her own journey, offers a practical roadmap: engage others with the gospel in ways they understand, rely on the Holy Spirit for guidance, and create space to listen to God’s voice. It’s a life that isn’t always easy, but as Pastor Zoe reminded her congregation, “When we let God lead, He takes us on journeys we never imagined—and they’re always worth it.”

Understanding the Kingdom of Heaven: Treasure and Commission

As Pastor Zoe Hatcher concluded her message on embodying and living out the Kingdom of Heaven, she brought the congregation to a powerful reflection on the cost, joy, and mission of Kingdom living. She explored key biblical truths, grounding her message in Scripture and practical application, inviting everyone to participate in God’s work with a heart of surrender and purpose.

The Treasure of the Kingdom

Pastor Zoe turned to the parables of the treasure hidden in a field and the pearl of great price, as recorded in Matthew 13:44-46 (NIV):

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”

These parables highlight the incomparable value of the Kingdom of Heaven. Pastor Zoe challenged listeners to ask themselves, Are we willing to give up everything to live the Kingdom life? She pointed out that the man and the merchant in the stories didn’t hesitate; they acted with joy, seeing the treasure and pearl as worth every sacrifice.

“Sometimes,” Pastor Zoe said, “we let our lives get cluttered—with distractions, possessions, or even our own plans. But Jesus is asking us to sell everything, not out of obligation, but out of joy because we’ve found something infinitely more valuable.”

She encouraged the congregation to reflect on what they might need to release to embrace the Kingdom fully, explaining that the cost is always overshadowed by the reward: living in the presence and purpose of God, and sharing that life with others.

Sent Out with Peace and Power

Pastor Zoe closed her message with a powerful call to action, rooted in John 20:21-22 (NIV):

“Again Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.’ And with that he breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.'”

Here, Jesus commissions His disciples, much like He commissions us today. Pastor Zoe reminded the congregation that the Kingdom of Heaven is not only something to seek and treasure but also something to share. “We’re not just recipients of the Kingdom,” she said. “We’re ambassadors of it. We are sent, just as Jesus was sent, to bring the Kingdom to everyone around us.”

She explained the significance of Jesus breathing on His disciples, an act foreshadowing the full empowerment they would receive at Pentecost. “It’s the indwelling of the Holy Spirit,” she said. “This same Spirit lives in us, giving us peace and the ability to carry out the mission of the Kingdom.”

A Call to Listen and Obey

To embody the Kingdom, Pastor Zoe emphasized the importance of listening to God and moving in step with Him. This involves setting aside dedicated time to hear His voice, seeking His guidance, and responding with obedience.

She shared how many of Open Arms Church’s microchurches were birthed out of this intentional time of listening. “During our encounter weekends,” she said, “we set apart time to ask the Holy Spirit, ‘What are you calling me to do? Where are you sending me?’ And out of those spaces, we’ve seen incredible Kingdom work—people stepping into their God-given purpose to bring the Kingdom to their communities.”

A Time of Commissioning

Pastor Zoe invited anyone feeling a nudge from the Holy Spirit to step forward for prayer and commissioning. Just as Jesus sent out His disciples, the church was called to step into their unique roles in advancing the Kingdom.

In her final moments on stage, Zoe reminded everyone of the power of community in this mission. “We’re not sent alone,” she said. “We’re sent with the Holy Spirit and with each other, united in purpose and love.”

As the worship team began to play, Pastor Zoe encouraged reflection and prayer, inviting individuals to surrender fully to God’s call. Whether through anointing or a simple prayer of commissioning, the service ended with a profound sense of sending.

Living the Kingdom Life

Pastor Zoe’s message serves as a reminder that the Kingdom of Heaven is not only a future promise but a present reality we are invited to live out today. It’s a treasure of immeasurable worth that compels us to joyful sacrifice, a mission that calls us to action, and a relationship with God that empowers us through His Spirit.

As the congregation left the service, they carried with them the commission Jesus gave His disciples: to go into the world, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and bring the Kingdom to others.

The question Pastor Zoe leaves us with is one we must all answer: What is God calling you to release, embrace, or do to live out His Kingdom today?