Christmas day is nearly here and the excitement of the season will come to fruition. All the hard work of plans, gift wrapping, and cooking will be met with joy as we celebrate the day with family and friends.

But in this short post I want to encourage the church family to remember throughout that day—the day that the Lord has made—why we gather and why we celebrate. I love reading the birth story, and I feel that each time I read it, I learn something new. I think my favorite part of the birth narrative of the Lord Jesus is found in Matthew’s gospel.

At the very end of the vision given to Joseph, the angel of the Lord says,

22All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: 23“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us)."
— Matthew 1:22–23 (ESV)

There is something about the name, “Immanuel.” It is a truth that should be celebrated on Christmas day and every day of the year. Religions of man are filled with failed attempts of man trying to get to God. Failed attempts filled with good works, tall towers, and pious institutions. All failing to get us to God. But the Bible tells us the story of God coming down to us. It is the greatest of all stories.

When December 25th arrives, you and I will gather with family to open gifts and to eat. But let’s not be distracted and remember that God is with us. Jesus is with us—and because Immanuel is with us this day, we have life today, tomorrow, and in all eternity.

—Bro. Jesse