“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be His people, and God Himself will be with them as their God.’” Revelation 21:3
The name “Emmanuel” speaks of the prevalent theme of all Scripture. The idea of “God with us” is not only God’s promise to Israel but to all who place their trust in Him. Through sacrifice and mercy, our loving God has made a way to be with His people, both Israel in the Old Testament and the church of Jesus Christ in the New Testament, all leading to the day we stand in His presence for all of eternity.
Leaving the throne in heaven and identifying with humanity by becoming a man and by His death on the cross for our sins Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of this theme of the Bible. The true meaning of Christmas is summed up in the name “Emmanuel.” The birth of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Messiah, and Savior of all man, has cleared the way for God to “be with us.”
Exactly… this is why it is my favorite name for God. The fact that He crafted a plan to be with me – an imperfect person – is so overwhelming! The longing of men for all time was finally realized. God was “with us!” And think about it. This was not for His benefit. This was solely for our benefit. He did not need me, but I most surely NEED Him. Amazing.
God with us…Emmanuel thank you Pastor Bob for reminding me how much God loves me and has sacrificed for us all.
Your post captures the issue perfectly!