Christmas is a season marked by joy, family gatherings, and celebration, but it can also be a time of quiet reflection—a moment to pause and remember the profound truth of Emmanuel, God with us. In the busyness of the season, it is easy to miss the depth of this name, one that carries both comfort and promise, both power and safety.
From the beginning of time, God has been near. When Adam and Eve walked in the garden, they enjoyed the unbroken fellowship of His presence (Genesis 3:8). Even after sin entered the world, God never withdrew His love or His desire to be close to humanity. Throughout the Scriptures, we see Him pursuing His people with an unwavering, relentless love. He was with Abraham as he ventured into the unknown (Genesis 12:1-4), with Moses in the burning bush and on Mount Sinai (Exodus 3:2-12), and with David as he sang of God’s closeness, declaring, “The Lord is near to all who call on Him” (Psalm 145:18).
But at Christmas, God’s nearness is revealed in its fullness. The angel declares to Joseph that Mary’s child shall be called Emmanuel—a name meaning God with us (Matthew 1:23). In Jesus, the infinite God wrapped Himself in human flesh and stepped into our world. This is why Jesus came: to reconcile us to the Father, to invite us into the family of God, and to show us that He is not a distant, far-off deity. He is close, present, and personal.
For those who find Christmas particularly difficult—those who mourn the loss of loved ones, whether recent or long ago, or who feel the ache of being far from family—this truth carries even greater significance. Jesus did not simply come to dwell among us for a time; He promised never to leave us. Before ascending to Heaven, He assured His disciples, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). He also declared the coming of the Holy Spirit, a Comforter, Helper, and Friend to walk with us every step of our journey (John 14:16-18).
The Holy Spirit’s presence is as real and tangible today as it was at Pentecost. For the grieving, He brings peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:7). For the lonely, He whispers the reminder that we are never truly alone, for God Himself dwells within us. As Jesus said, “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you” (John 14:18). This is the hope of Christmas.
It is easy to celebrate the babe in the manger without recognizing that this child is also the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The carols we sing, passed down through generations, point us to this truth: “O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord!” Jesus is not only the Prince of Peace and the Son of Righteousness; He is the everlasting Lord whose reign has no end.
So, as you sing “Joy to the world” or “Hark! The herald angels sing,” let these words move from your lips to your heart. Acknowledge Jesus for who He is and what He has done: God with us, God for us, and God who has come to save us. He is worthy of all our worship and praise.
If you are searching for hope this Christmas, you are warmly invited to join us on Sunday, December 22 at 4119 DeMaisonneuve West (corner Wood Ave), just minutes from Atwater Metro. Together, let us celebrate Jesus—not only as the child in the manger but as the risen Savior and King.
Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed and joy-filled Christmas season. May you know the love of God, the nearness of His presence, and the comfort of His Spirit this season and always.
Merry Christmas!
