Look for the Sign | Advent Day 6
Daily Scripture Reading: Isaiah 7:14
Isaiah 7:14 is a verse just brimming with hope and promise. Try to imagine the impact that such words would have had on those who first heard them, hundreds of years before Christ’s birth. Perhaps more than anything, Israel longed for a Savior, someone who would rescue them and bring them near to God. This is the light in the middle of the darkness, the promise that God Himself would come to be with His people.
Fast-forward into the New Testament, and we find the most miraculous fulfillment of this prophecy. Mary was visited by an angel who announced to her that she would conceive a son through the Holy Ghost. That child is Jesus Christ: He is Immanuel, God with us, the full content of Isaiah’s words.
But what does “God with us” mean for us today? It means that we are never alone. During the craziness of the holiday seasons, when life gets crazy-busy or downright lonely, Immanuel reminds us God is right here, walking with us through every high and low. He understands our struggles, our joys, and our sorrows because He experienced them, too.
Theologically speaking, this is deep. The gap between us and our Creator is bridged by Jesus Himself, who is fully God and fully man. But His birth testifies to the love of God for us all and His will to relate to us closely in our very lives. God is not merely an austere deity, but a loving Father who sent His Son to dwell among us, to teach us, and ultimately to save us through His death and resurrection.
Light your Advent candles as a reminder that indeed the true light has come into the world. Jesus really is the reason for this season. His being in our lives is forever the greatest gift ever given. May we embrace this truth and share the love and joy of Immanuel with those around us.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, our Immanuel. As we celebrate this Advent season, remind us of Your constant presence and unwavering love. Help us feel Your closeness in every moment and share Your message to those we meet. Fill our hearts with joy, peace, and gratitude, knowing that You are always with us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.