Immanuel changes everything.

The prophet Isaiah said it long ago, “A virgin shall conceive and bear a son and shall name him Immanuel.”

About 750 years later, it came true. In Matthew 1, this verse is repeated. And, this time, the meaning of Immanuel is given, “God is with us.” Everything changed. God was with the people. He loved, ministered, taught, led, and lived alongside the people. Nothing mattered to those that believed except “God is with us.” They now had hope, peace, and grace, forever.

I had become a believer many years prior, but I was going through a valley that I had never experienced. A deep trough that felt hopeless. On my own, there was no way out. I did the only thing I knew to do and began praying, only I didn’t have words. I couldn’t muster up anything that seemed adequate for my situation, so, I sat weeping. Suddenly, my mind was filled with a bible verse, Matthew 28:20. Not the entire verse, I might add, but the end.

...and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.

I immediately knew that was enough. Despite everything that was going on around me, Immanuel was enough.

Jesus said the above verse to his disciples at the end of his ministry, encouraging them that they would never be alone, without him. And it was these words that immediately brought me peace and hope. He was with me.

The Bible is full of deep, theological truths, but the most meaningful to me is Immanuel. This is the light that shines no matter the situation.

Ever find it hard to forgive? If God is with you, you forgive. Ever find it hard to love? If God is with you, you love. Are you hopeless? God is with you provides hope. Confused? God is with you provides clarity. Angry? God is with you settles. Every minute, every day, every situation, He is there.

So, this Christmas, recognize Immanuel. God is with you. Peace is yours if you believe.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John‬ ‭14:27‬ 

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