“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). (Matt. 1:23)
Expanded Passage: Matthew 1:18-25
I learned a valuable lesson about a year into marriage with my wife, Christie. I learned that one of the greatest supports I could offer her when experiencing something difficult was not advice or my perspective, but my presence. She taught me that we as human beings find comfort, safety, and hope when we know we are not alone, especially as we experience hardship.
One of the many names for Jesus is “Immanuel,” which means “God with us.” While many of us are familiar with this title of Jesus, we would do well to pause and think of its significance. The perfect, all-creating, three-in-one God took on human form and walked among humanity in Jesus, and now, through the Holy Spirit, resides within us. The nature and work of Jesus hinges on the reality that he is a God that is present in our lives. His life and ministry are encapsulated in him being Immanuel.
While it is comforting and encouraging to know that other people are for us and with us, how much more comforting and encouraging to know that the creator of the universe is as well? Perhaps you find yourself in a season of life where you feel alone or discouraged. Maybe thoughts of fear, pain, or rejection weigh heavily on you. God has promised to be with you in the highest highs and lowest lows of life.
Immanuel is not only God with us, but God with you.
Joel Gorveatte loves Jesus, his wife, and the church deeply. He serves as the Worship & Next Steps pastor at Journey Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
