As we pause in this interval between Christmas Day and New Years Eve it is for many of us a time for relaxation. Present giving and carols are over; some are in full holiday mode. It’s a time for recharging the batteries so to speak… a time to reflect.

It’s amazing how Bible verses we know so well can suddenly light up with deeper meaning. For me it was this one…”therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: the virgin shall be with child and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” (Is. 7:14 NIV)

Of course, this verse is all about Christmas, but there was something in this verse that spoke to me afresh. It was just that one word… Immanuel! What was it saying? Of course, we know it means that God is with us… immanu (with us) and El (God).

Yet, there was a meaning here which I hadn’t fully grasped. Yes, he is the Son of God, and our Saviour. But he is God, and existed with the Father before the world began… he is the I AM.

The wonderful, incredible reality is this… Jesus as God! is with us. The presence of God in OT times could only be known through the Temple worship but now He comes to us personally. We are now human temples and where His Spirit takes up residence.

May we know Jesus in the full reality of who he is… GOD WITH US!