Immanuel, God with us

 So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.   John 1.14

Heaven's birthday celebration erupted with Jesus's earthly arrival! Angels' amplifying horns reverberated, and confetti of shooting stars worshipped across the night sky. Singing at the top of their lungs, the angelic choir declared,

Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased!    Luke 2.14

Jesus' delivery was in the most unprivileged and disgusting place. Such a glorious event began in horrible surroundings. Baby Jesus was wrapped in swaddling clothes and placed on top of dirty, smelly yuck. And still, all of heaven proclaimed God’s grandeur with His entrance. Jesus deserved better, but God had a plan and a purpose to be with us. So He sent His precious one and only Son to save sinners.

The foul barn stable represents the dirtiest part of ourselves, and Jesus, in His holiness, was laid among what defines us, our sins. His truths enlighten our disobedience, revealing where we fall short of God’s glory. Yet He is always with us amid our messiness.

Focusing on His love, mercy, and forgiveness will lead our hearts to confess our sins. God gives us purification as we cooperatively relinquish them. Through our cleansing, His faithfulness offers us an abundance of grace and peace. The beauty of our deliverance from our sinful lives is to be clothed in His righteousness as God’s Spirit desires.

Excitedly, yet humbly, welcome Jesus so you, too, can receive new birth into a God-designed life with exclusive devotion. May your soul bellow in heavenly songs of praise to Immanuel, God with us!

Father, I praise You for who You are and for always being with me, no matter my circumstances. Cleanse me in the areas I willingly surrender to You. Forgive me, and bring me into Your loving embrace. I long to know You more intimately. In Jesus' name, Amen

For the Lord your God is living among you. He is a mighty saviour. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.    Zephaniah 3.17