God With Us

December 19th, 2023

In the days leading to Christmas and the New Year let us focus on the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. While many debate the actual date of our Savior’s birth, we rejoice that he has come, just as our Father said He would! So as we leave those details aside for men to grapple with, let us focus on the miracle and the fulfillment of Jesus' birth!

SCRIPTURE: " Now all this took place so that what was spoken by the Lord through the prophet would be fulfilled: 23 “Behold, the virgin will conceive and give birth to a Son, and they shall name Him Immanuel,” which translated means, “God with us.” 24 And Joseph awoke from his sleep and did as the angel of the Lord commanded him, and took Mary as his wife, 25 but kept her a virgin until she gave birth to a Son; and he named Him Jesus. " Matthew 1: 22-25 NASB

Should 'God with us' be of no effect? Should 'Immanuel' abide in the shadow of Santa, Black Friday sales, the Christmas decorations, and the gathering of family and friends? Should 'Jesus' be the default reality after the flurry of gift-giving, excess eating, partying, movie-binging, and games? Is He not holy?

In the manner of our brother Joseph, let us awaken from our lively slumber, and do according to the LORD's preference. We can borrow both from Joseph, as well as the magi..."And they came into the house and saw the Child with Mary His mother; and they" [the magi] "fell down and worshiped Him; and opening their treasures they presented to Him gifts of gold, and frankincense and myrrh." Matthew 2:11

Let us all open our most treasured of treasures and revere Him as King of Kings, Eternal and most High-Priest, and Glorious Kinsman-Redeemer and Savior: Jesus, Messiah of Israel and Light to the Gentiles - bless the Holy One, God the Son.

Awaken precious pilgrim on the path that leadeth high,
and find of every dutiful step, delight before thy eye.

Let every gaze fill gloriously, the day unveiled as gold;
for God Himself is with you now, and as was once foretold.

Let troubling things be rightly put, the Lord to maketh glad,
and step with patience, heart at peace, for such salvation had.

The tears you bring, let each one sing beneath sweet heaven's throng –
Thy soul proclaiming 'Jesus! King!', with faith to tarry on.

Prayer: Holy Spirit, bless as only You can this soul towards a proper thirst, for the things of grace and glory. Praise be to Jesus! Amen.
By Bro. McNeal Brockington