December 24, 2023 Christmas Eve | "Cranky Christmas: Jesus: unexpected beauty, in the midst of the mess" | Rev. Vicki Harrison
"Discover the true essence of Christmas with Pastor Vicki Harrison's sermon 'Jesus: Unexpected Beauty, In the Midst of the Mess' - a journey from chaos to hope, rooted in New Hope's core beliefs."
5:00 PM - Family Blended Service
7:00 PM - Praise Service
Summary:
In her insightful sermon, Pastor Vicki Harrison explores the reality of Christmas, contrasting our idealized visions with the raw, often chaotic truth of the first Christmas. She eloquently reveals how God's work often unfolds in the messiness of life, a theme deeply rooted in the mission of New Hope to make more and better followers of Jesus Christ. Pastor Vicki reminds us that like Mary and Joseph's unexpected journey, our lives too are filled with unforeseen challenges. Yet, in these moments, God is actively working to create beauty and purpose. The call to action here is clear: embrace life's imperfections and find solace in the transformative power of Jesus Christ. Let us be rooted in God’s Word, renewed by the Holy Spirit, and reach out to the world with this message of hope and resilience. For more on our mission, visit New Hope's Mission. Reflect on previous teachings in our Message Archive.
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December 17, 2023 | "Cranky Christmas: Jesus Is King" | Rev. Vicki Harrison
Explore the profound themes of an unexpected journey, divine trust, and the Magi's quest in this Christmas sermon. Find purpose, hope in challenges, and discover how God's purpose prevails amid uncertainty. Join the Advent reflections, fostering faith as you keep searching.
9:30 AM - Traditional Service
11:15 AM - Praise Service
Summary:
Rev. Vicki Harrison delivers a powerful sermon titled "Jesus Is King," reminding us that life doesn't always unfold as planned. Using the narrative of the Magi's journey to find the newborn King, she draws parallels to our own quests for purpose. In the face of unexpected challenges, Vicki encourages us to trust that God's purposes will prevail. This insightful sermon inspires hope and encourages a deepening connection with the divine, especially during the Christmas season.
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December 10, 2023 | "Cranky Christmas: Blessed Are The Flexible" | Rev. Roberto Chaple
9:30 AM - Traditional Service
11:15 AM - Praise Service
Summary:
Pastor Roberto Chaple delivered a sermon titled "Blessed Are The Flexible" as part of the Advent series called "Cranky Christmas." The sermon emphasizes the need for flexibility in the face of life's challenges and the importance of being prepared for the unexpected, especially during the Christmas season.
Pastor Chaple draws parallels between the inflexible expectations of the Jewish people during the time of Jesus and the rigid assumptions Christians often make about how God should fulfill promises. He highlights the tendency to resist change when God's plans do not align with personal expectations.
The central theme revolves around the idea that God compares believers to flexible things, such as clay in the hands of a potter or a ship following a good shepherd. The challenge arises when believers struggle to maintain their flexibility when God's plans deviate from their assumptions.
The sermon uses the examples of Mary and Joseph to illustrate the importance of being flexible, adaptable, and open to the unexpected ways in which God works. Mary's initial questioning (Luke 1:34) contrasts with her ultimate acceptance and flexibility (Luke 1:38) when she realizes the divine plan.
Pastor Chaple underscores the role of the Holy Spirit in transforming doubtful and skeptical attitudes (Luke 1:35-37). He encourages believers to be open to supernatural occurrences, understanding that God's power is not limited to the past and remains active in contemporary times.
The sermon concludes with a prayer for flexibility, availability, and vision. Believers are urged to seek flexibility in God's hands, embrace availability for His calling, and have a visionary outlook for what God can accomplish through them and in their future generations.
Overall, Pastor Chaple's sermon emphasizes the need for believers to remain open, adaptable, and faithful to God's plans, even when faced with unexpected circumstances.
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December 24, 2023 | "Cranky Christmas: VIP Access" | Rev. Roberto Chaple
10:00 am Service
Summary:
In the sermon titled "VIP Access" from the series "Cranky Christmas," Pastor Roberto Chaple emphasizes the idea that God grants VIP access to unexpected individuals. Drawing from the biblical narrative, he contrasts the wise men seeking a king with the shepherds seeking a savior. The core message revolves around being blessed and highly favored by God, focusing on qualities such as humility, recognizing the need for God's breath, and pursuing righteousness. The sermon encourages listeners to be facilitators of God's grace, available and open to experiencing VIP access in their lives.
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December 3, 2023 | "Cranky Christmas: God Is Never Late" | Rev. Vicki Harrison
9:30 AM - Traditional Service
11:15 AM - Praise Service
Summary:
The sermon "God Is Never Late" by Pastor Vicki Harrison is based on the biblical passage from Luke chapter one, verses five through 25. The sermon revolves around the story of Zachariah and Elizabeth, a couple who were righteous in the sight of God but were unable to conceive a child due to their old age.
Zachariah, a priest, is chosen by lot to enter the temple and burn incense before the Lord. While in the temple, the angel Gabriel appears to him and delivers the message that his wife, Elizabeth, will bear a son named John. This child will play a significant role in preparing the way for the Lord.
Zachariah expresses doubt, asking how he can be sure of this since he and his wife are old. In response, the angel informs him that he will be unable to speak until the prophecy comes true. Meanwhile, Elizabeth becomes pregnant, and when their son is born, Zachariah affirms the name given by the angel—John. At this moment, Zachariah's speech is restored, and he praises God for fulfilling His promise.
Pastor Vicki Harrison emphasizes the unexpected nature of God's plans, drawing parallels between the challenges faced by Zachariah and Elizabeth and those encountered by people in contemporary life. The sermon encourages trust in God's faithfulness, even when circumstances seem discouraging or unplanned. It conveys the message that God's timing is perfect, and His purposes prevail, bringing hope and joy even in unexpected situations. The sermon concludes with an invitation to approach the communion table, reflecting on the presence of God and anticipating His transformative work in the hearts of the listeners.
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