In my lifetime, Christmas has been about many things:
sometimes, it’s been about friends and get-togethers and parties and being socially connected.
sometimes, it’s been about family and reunions and traditions.
sometimes, it’s been about fun and travel and new adventures.
sometimes, frankly, it’s been about the gifts and money and the wrappings and decorations.
This year, however, Christmas is about something entirely different. It’s about Immanuel, “God With Us”, and the response of worship.
I don’t have a terrific study Bible, and I’m not a biblical scholar or seminarian, but in my limited research I’ve discovered that the name Immanuel is only used on two occasions – both in the book of Isaiah. And only one of those references (as far as I can tell) refers to the promised Messiah:
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel. (Isaiah 7:14)
Immanuel…God with us. Over the past couple of months, I’ve learned firsthand what that means.
It means that God understands. He’s “with” me when I complain to Him, when I cry out to Him, when I vent my frustrations, when I’m crabby or moody or happy or pensive.
It means that God is present. He’s “with” me as I face each day. He knows my victories and my failures. He holds me when I’m hurting and reassures me when I’m anxious and fearful.
It means that God has been there, done that. He’s “with” me when I don’t think anyone else can relate. He is uniquely familiar with all I have been through, and knows firsthand the difficulties I face.
It means that God is living. He’s “with” me just as He has been “with” others throughout history. He is everlasting, not bound by the constraints of time.
It means that God is my advocate. He’s “with” me when I stand alone, when no one else is willing to share my conviction, my pain, or my passion.
It means that God is within me. He’s “with” me as He guides me, directs me, and leads me. Through His Spirit and discernment, I can see the path laid out for me to take and know that the way is true.
I’m sure my list is far from comprehensive. But these are the things God has been showing me, teaching me, instilling upon my heart as I’ve pondered this mystery. At this Christmas season, I’ve been drawn to the music of worship, music that draws me to my knees, that causes me to lift my face and raise my hands in adoration. This year, for me, it’s not about loud celebration or joyful noises, but rather about responding in worship. As I’ve read the Christmas story, I’ve noticed – perhaps for the very first time – the response of all who witnessed Immanuel’s coming was worship. The shepherds followed the angel’s direction…and worshipped. The wise men brought their gifts…and worshipped. Simeon and Anna held and saw the Christ child…and worshipped. Immanuel has come…God is WITH us in so many dimensions of understanding…how could I not respond in the same way?
One of the songs I’ve been particularly enjoying this season is on my latest cd obsession, Michael W. Smith’s “It’s a Wonderful Christmas”. It’s more worshipful than some of his previous cd’s, filled with dramatic orchestral sounds and rich vocal harmonies. This one particular song has inspired me to think more deeply of Immanuel. I encourage you to listen, and to reflect on what Immanuel means to you. Allow the words to fall on you and sink deep within you. Allow yourself to be drawn to worship…adoration…gratitude…to our awesome God, our Immanuel.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=myBAMMPptjI&feature=related[/youtube]