O Holy Night is a well-known Christmas carol that began as a French poem celebrating the opening of a new church. The beloved song we know today was translated into English by John Sullivan Dwight, an American minister and abolitionist, in 1855.

 

This poignant carol reflects on the birth of Jesus as humanity’s redemption.

 

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

 

A thrill of hope...what a beautiful, moving way to describe the feeling in our hearts as we approach the date that we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

 

Right now, you may be feeling a weariness that you haven’t felt before. Concerns about the health and well-being of your family, and worldly troubles beyond your control, may be weighing heavily on your heart this year.

 

We invite you to join us as we approach Christmas Day in rejoicing in the Lord. A new and glorious morning is on the way, and our hope is still, and always, in Jesus.

 

Let’s pray.

 

Heavenly Father, we confess this year has made us weary. God, we pine for your holy presence, and we rejoice in your gift of Jesus! Be present among us, Lord. Bring peace to the chaos of this world and renew our hope for the coming year. We ask these all of these things in Jesus’ name, amen.