e/i

emmanuel is usually only a word we hear and use around christmastime. it’s only used once in the new testament in matthew 1:23 - “behold, the virgin shall become pregnant and give birth to a Son, and they shall call His name Emmanuel–which, when translated, means, God with us.”  it’s only used a couple of times in the old testament. isaiah 7:14 says, (777 for you numerology geeks) - “the Lord himself will give you a miraculous sign. the virgin is going to have a baby. she will give birth to a son. and he will be called Immanuel.

emmanuel/immanuel reveals the simple truth that God sent Himself to this dark, broken, chaotic planet to rescue us from ourselves, sin and the evil one.  e/i says it all - God surrounds us with himself… God is ever-present… God never leaves us or forgets us… God chooses to be near, to be personal and present… God is with us!  e/i brings us such security, joy, strength, peace, hope - when we get ahold of the depth of this - everything changes.  how can we fear if God is near?  why would we complain if the almighty is within earshot?  how can we get discouraged when we realize e/i is (literally) right next to us?  when would it be appropriate for us to doubt when the creator is in the room?  

when you understand e/i you understand everything you need to know.  e/i is a way of life.  e/i is an eternal promise to grab ahold of.  e/i is everything.  may we be more aware of e/i.  no matter what the world, the enemy or anyone else throws at you, remember e/i.

“i’ve called you by name.  you are mine.  you will pass through deep waters. but I will be with you. you will pass through the rivers. but their waters will not sweep over you. you will walk through fire. but you will not be burned. the flames will not harm you.  because i am God, your personal God, the holy one of israel, your savior.  i paid a guge price for you.  that’s how much you mean to me!  that’s how much i love you!  i’d sell off the whole world… trade the creation just for you.”  isaiah 43