God with Us

Very few of us are in a position at work where we can just waltz into the CEO's office, sit down and have a chat. The larger the company we work for, the more likely we are shuffled further and further away from the one in charge. If the big boss does make an appearance, it isn't likely for the purpose of building a relationship. Rather, it is probably a stress point that starts with cleaning up your work area and admonishment from your supervisor to stay busy and keep quiet while he's here.

As Christmas Day draws near, I am struck by the amazing truth that God chose to come to earth to be with his people. He chose to leave the majesty and splendor of Heaven and come to us in the least spectacular way possible--as a helpless baby born in a manger. Matthew 1:23 tells us that the virgin Mary would conceive and bear a son and he would be called Immanuel which means "God with us".

Announcing the coming of Jesus to the shepherds, the angel of the Lord said "for unto you is born this day in the city of David, a Savior who is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:11). Jesus was the Messiah born for us! God himself chose to dwell among his people. He chose to reveal himself in human flesh to those He created in his image. Through Jesus Christ, we get a glimpse of who God is, what matters to him, what brings him joy, what brings him sorrow. We see his love, his mercy, his grace, his forgiveness, his strength, his power. And as those who have accepted Christ as Lord and Savior, we continue to have God with us through Holy Spirit, who dwells inside each and every believer.

Jesus himself declared "whoever sees me sees him who sent me" (John 12:45). Let us not forget to rejoice in the greatest Christmas gift ever given. Jesus Christ. Immanuel. God with us.