Emmanuel

The definition is simple but powerful, “God is with us.”  Although it seems easy-to-understand, do we believe with all our senses that God is with us through His son, Jesus, born this day? 

I’ve been blessed my whole life knowing I’ve been surrounded by loved ones.  I was born into a loving family, already having a brother and sister to greet me, plus loving parents.  I guarantee we weren’t the perfect family, but I knew my parents were always there for me, as were both my brother and sister.  I had an extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends that I have so many fond memories while growing up and experiencing many happy times.  I felt safe and loved.  When I fell in love, I was blessed again with another new family that cared for me.  As our relationship grew over the years, I came to know that my now husband’s family would also always be there for me, and they proved that many times over. 

Then there was another extended family – my church family.  Those relationships grew over the years and helped me through many difficult times, plus strengthening my faith.  God proved, throughout my life, that Jesus was with me.  It was evident when looking back from the beginning of my life and into my now “golden years.”  Of course, there are times we all experience fear, doubt, and even anger and resentment.  But I know (and I hope all can see) that nothing goes without notice by God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, the Three in One.  Doubters will wonder why there is war if there is a God.  Some will wonder why a child suffers and why doesn’t our loving God intervene.  Believe me, I don’t have any answers to all of life’s mysteries; but I do know that my life has been blessed by Jesus being with me.  He’s given me strength to persevere, and I know there are many times that He sat and cried with me.  And I also know there are many more times that He is dancing and celebrating with me.

Maybe we complain that our prayer life is stale sometimes.  Many of us may admit we have doubts, wondering if He hears our prayers.  But all those questions are just specks of dust that blow away with the wind when I look back at my life.  Jesus is with us – Emmanuel.  Jesus is with you and me every day when we open our eyes and then when we finally rest at night.

We cannot measure our life by regrets, what we think should have happened or the times we believe Jesus was not walking beside us.  Jesus is more than a spirit that roams the earth.  He is Emmanuel –  God IS with us.  Don’t let go of His hand on your journey.  You’ll be happier feeling His presence.  Christ is born today! Hallelujah! A very blessed Merry CHRISTmas to you!

“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).  Matthew 1:23