Dec 9th, 2021: Immanuel

 

This prophecy is about the birth of Jesus.


“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means God with us). (Matthew 1:21)


What does "God with us" mean practically?


He reveals himself to us in creation. Sometimes I go on a hike and encounter incredible views of nature. I know that not too many people get a chance to see these views. The beauty of God in nature affirms to me that He is with us.


God is with us in our prayer. I am not talking about the religious practice of praying alone. It is about having an ongoing communion with God regardless of where we are. It can happen when we are still in a public park. It can happen when we care for someone who is sick. It can happen when we listen to music.


God is with us in our redemption. The more we are free to acknowledge our brokenness, the more we experience the presence of God. He longs for us to experience the oneness with Him. The redemption of the world is why Christmas happens.


God is with us in our creativity and innovation. Nothing is new to God. God is still creating today through our work and discovery. Through our discovery, we learn about the greatness of God. Our creativity confirms His presence in the world.


Christmas is not just a nice story. It is the time when we celebrate a historical event that tells us about God's involvement in human affairs. "Immanuel indeed". Do we have the courage to be with Him?

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