Immanuel

Therefore the LORD Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 NLT

You might be asking yourself, isn’t this a Christmas scripture? You know what, all scripture can be Christmas scripture because the Bible tells of God’s redeeming love and grace to His people.

We are reminded in this passage that God is with us, Immanuel. Not only at Christmas, but also through every moment of our lives. As we walk through the uncertain times of our lives, He is there. As we dance through the joyful times of our lives, He is there. Even when we break His heart, He is there.

You can’t ask Jesus to please stay at home while you go to the movies and see something that you don’t want Him to know you’re watching. You can’t read a book that He might not approve of and ask Him to keep His eyes closed. Jesus is a permanent part of your life; He is the best part.

What will you do today that will help you keep your Immanuel close to your heart? Sing a Christmas carol? Give someone an unexpected gift? It was just a few short weeks ago, it seems, that you were preparing for His birth. Have you let yourself forget about the baby and the excitement and the celebrations you had? With the Christmas decorations taken care of have you lapsed into the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ routine?

Now you are walking with Him to the cross. His life seemed so short. There seems to be so much left undone.

I want you to remember, Jesus left nothing undone, His death was only the beginning. He rose from the dead so you and I

can be freed from our sins and come into the Father’s presence. He wants you to share His love and Good News with the world around you. Most of all, He wants to have that rich, exciting and amazing personal relationship with you!

I encourage you to focus on Him today, cherish the times you are aware of His presence and that time will grow into a wonderful relationship. Even when we make those wrong choices, He will not leave you or forsake you. Jesus is your Immanuel!

Remind me often today, Jesus, that You are right here with me and You have nothing but the best for my future. When I begin to stray from the Your path, nudge me back into the fullness of Your presence. What joy to know that You are there watching out for me. I love You LORD!
Amen