Let them construct a Sanctuary for me so that I can live among them. (Exodus 25:8 The Message)
Emmanuel
It is Christmas time, so we might sing that Christmas Hymn, “Emmanuel.” We know it means, “God is with us.” But that is more than a holiday platitude.
I once drove a fairly famous theologian to and from the airport in my car. And having that learned professor sit next to me made me feel smarter, wiser, and more theologically astute. He was with me, and something rubbed off for a while.
I once had a meal with a fairly famous actor. And having that talented, clever, kind, and gracious man sit near me made me feel a little bit more skilled, understanding, and experienced. He was with me, and something rubbed off for a while.
I once had a friend who was an expert hunter. I went with him hunting a couple of times. And having that skilled, woodsy, successful man crouching next to me made me feel a little bit more capable, knowledgeable, and old-timey. He was with me, and something rubbed off for a while.
Those examples are miniscule compared to the difference it makes to have God with us… to have Jesus with us… to have Emmanuel. And we do have Emmanuel. We ourselves, clinging to Christ, are God’s Sanctuary.
Emmanuel brings peace, patience, joy, faith, hope, and love. And a few other fruits and gifts!
We are unique, we have Emmanuel.