Have you ever noticed that the word “Emmanuel” is only mentioned around Christmas time? But it means “God with us.” Why shouldn’t it be used all year long? Let’s bring it back.
There’s no better time than right now to remind ourselves that He is with us. With the changing scene around us, I’ve been thinking about how hard it is to hold it all together. We’re juggling new vibes in our home lives and work roles have shifted, or potentially disappeared. Everything seems so out of our reach and control and we wonder if it will all come crashing down around us at any moment. Can we trust that He is Emmanuel still? Even when circumstances around us seem to say otherwise? I say, yes! He’s the same yesterday, today and forever. Hebrews 13:8
With all of these uncertainties in front of us, what should we actually DO when things get overwhelming – Or worse, when things are persistently mundane? I have two ideas: First, turn your eyes upon Jesus. Remember when you first believed? Go to that place and remember His great power and love. It’s the same now as it was then! If you’re reading this and not sure if you’ve said yes to His invitation yet, then why not do that right now? Check out John 3:16. He loves you very much! He’s as close as your next word. Here’s the other way we can look to Him. It’s very practical: look to His Word! Let’s do that now:
In John Chapter 20 (paraphrased), the scriptures tell us that Mary Magdelene was at the tomb early in the morning on the third day. It says she went while it was still dark. She was weeping and mourning the loss of her Lord and the scriptures record in verse 14, that she turned around and saw Jesus. But she didn’t realize it was Him! She thought he was the GARDENER! He asked her why she was crying and who she was looking for, and she asked him where he had put Jesus’ body. In verse 16, Jesus said to her “Mary.” And she turned toward Him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” He said her name. She then immediately knew He was with her.
Is He with us during this global pandemic? Yes. How can we tell? Stop and listen. Mary’s perspective was skewed by the darkness in the early morning and her foggy eyes from tears that had been understandably wept. Right now, our vision may be skewed by the uncertainties and confusion around us. But He has not changed! I encourage you to pause and listen for your name; He’s whispering it to you, today. He is still Emmanuel, God with us and you are loved by Him!
