Emmanuel. It means, literally, "God with us." It's the ultimate gift; the real Christ story.
It's a message that is easily and often lost in the midst of commercialism, internet, blogging, life, presents... and even Christmas. But, it's a message we all need to know and remember - not just once a year.
There are many ways to celebrate Christmas -- many beautiful traditions. In the midst of your celebration, I encourage you to take a moment to recalibrate, if necessary, on the real reason for the season. Don't miss the message. Don't miss the Christ in Christmas.
Merry Christmas and good night!
Discussion/Comments (4):
This is why we gave the name Emmanuelle to our first daughter as a middle name.
Posted at 12/25/2008 6:14:41 by Pascal Venier
Thanks for the reminder Eric. I noted in a short Christmas Eve message to our congregation that normally "God with us" as reported in the Scriptures was a terrifying experience. Examples: Israel at Mount Sinai, Isaiah in the throne room (Is 6). Even Peter when Jesus told him to cast his net one last time and every fish in the lake it seemed tried to get into his net. His response was one of being overwhelmed and wanting to escape Jesus' presence. In all cases, the fear was caused by a recognition of God's holiness and our lack of it. Yet, in the birth of Christ, there is a promise, to be realized later at the cross, of reconciliation so "God with us" can become for many a joyful experience, not one of fear and trembling.
Keep on blogging Eric, keep on.
Posted at 12/25/2008 21:44:37 by Roland Reddekop
Pascal, a beautiful name, indeed!
Eric
Posted at 12/26/2008 9:41:03 by Eric Mack
Roland, thanks for sharing. Indeed, it can be a joyful experience when trust that the Lord desires a personal relationship with us and we allow the Him to work in our lives. Indeed, we have something worth celebrating. Merry Christmas to you and your family as you celebrate this season! Eric
Posted at 12/26/2008 9:41:33 by Eric Mack
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