The Reason for the SeasonSample

Immanuel (God with Us)

“The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God with us’).” (Matthew 1:23)

Jesus was called Immanuel, which means “God with us.” He dwelt among us, was tested in every way that we are tested, paid the price for our sins so that we might be reconciled to the Father and have eternal life, was raised to life as the firstborn among many brethren, and is now seated at the right hand of the Father where he lives to make intercession for the saints.

But before he left this earth, Jesus said that it would be better for him to leave us, because he would send his Holy Spirit. Now for the first time, the mystery of God was revealed: His presence would not be in a tabernacle or temple or any building; his presence would not be in Jerusalem or in New York. God’s ultimate plan was that his church—his people—would be the place where he dwells. It is not just “God with us,” but Christ in us, the hope of glory! (Colossians 1:27).

Thank God this Christmas for his indescribable gift!