December 18, 2018 -- Matthew 1:23 -- Jesus, Immanuel

The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel--which means, "God with us."

Matthew 1:23 NIV

And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.

Matthew 28:20b

No doubt some are already humming the well-loved Christmas Carol: O Come, O Come, Immanuel. While there is great comfort in the name Immanuel, this name for Jesus is also a great warning.

Jesus is Immanuel--God with us for those who realize they are sinners and God is utterly holy. So Jesus calls for us to repent from our sins, turn away from them and trust in Him (Mt4:17)

Jesus is Immanuel--God with us for those who suffer because they believe in Him (Mt.5:10-12)

Jesus is Immanuel--God with us for those who find Him more precious than thousands of pieces of silver and gold (Ps119:72)

Jesus is Immanuel--God with us as one who is hungry, thirsty, naked and in prison. If we ignore His nearness in the needs of those He has placed in our path, then when He returns in His glory with all His holy angels, He will throw such people into the place of eternal punishment (Mt25:45)

Father in Heaven, already in the Old Testament You promised You would care for Your sheep, Your bewildered, lost, and wandering sheep. You have fulfilled Your promise most perfectly in Jesus Christ--our Immanuel. Jesus, You remain with us, giving to every believer the powerful Spirit Who leads us into all Truth. Spirit of God, give us eyes to see those in need, ears to hear their cries for help and hearts so dedicated to Immanuel that we serve others knowing it is Jesus Himself we serve. Amen.