Thursday, November 28, 2024

Immanuel - God with Us

The Gift of God With Us




 Hope in the Waiting

Trusting God’s Promises


Opening Scripture

“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign:

 The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, 

and will call him Immanuel.” 

Isaiah 7:14

Introduction

Advent is a season of waiting and hope. Isaiah’s prophecy of Immanuel reminds us that God is always faithful to His promises. As we prepare for the celebration of Christ’s birth, we are invited to trust in His perfect timing and find hope in the waiting.

Reflection

Waiting can feel endless, but Advent teaches us that waiting is filled with purpose. Isaiah’s prophecy of a virgin conceiving a child offered hope to Israel during times of uncertainty, pointing to God’s ultimate promise of redemption. The name Immanuel—“God with us”—is a profound reminder that we are never alone. It speaks of God’s presence, not just as a distant Creator but as a Savior who steps into our world to walk beside us.

Habakkuk 2:3 reassures us: “If it seems slow, wait for it; it will surely come; it will not delay.” God’s promises may seem delayed, but they are never late. William Barclay writes, “God’s delay is not God’s denial,” while C.S. Lewis emphasizes that hope is “a continual looking forward to the eternal world.”

The birth of Jesus as Immanuel fulfills God’s promise to dwell with His people, demonstrating His love and faithfulness. Advent invites us to hold onto this hope, trusting that the same God who kept His promise then is at work in our lives now.

Question for Reflection

What does it mean to you that God is “with us”? Reflect on a time when you experienced His presence during a season of waiting.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for sending Jesus to live among us and draw us into Your presence. Help us to trust in Your promises and to rest in the peace and hope found in Your perfect timing. This Advent season, may we be continually reminded of Your steadfast love.

Amen.


Deus Caritas Est


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