21/12/2024
Every year, we have a bauble made for our tree that summarises that year. This year, it is this one that reads ‘Emmanuel’, which means ‘God with us’.
Each of these baubles holds profound meaning for us, and this year's one no less so. Not only is it my husband's name, but it is the word that sums up Christmas more than any other and tells everyone the hope that has kept our family throughout what has been a very difficult year.
It reminds us of the truth that God is with us in every moment of our lives.
⏰ In the car, at the till, around the table, and even when we’re washing dishes. In our exams, at the office, during the night shift, and at the gym.
📅 In life’s – our first date, at the altar, when we thought we’d be married by now, and when “till death do us part” feels like a distant dream. When the pregnancy test is positive, when it’s not, when the ultrasound brings heartbreak, and in the miracle of the delivery room.
👪 When we’re changing nappies, at the school gates, when the kids leave home, and when they struggle with their faith. When it’s everything we hoped for – as our children succeed, at their graduation, at their wedding, and when they make us grandparents. When it’s not what we anticipated – in the divorce lawyer’s office, at the custody hearing, and when estrangement becomes part of our family’s story.
😢 In the triumphs and the tears – in the emergency room, in the waiting room, when it’s cancer, and during chemo. As we read the redundancy letter, when we cry, at the funeral, and when we’re missing the one who’s not here. In therapy, through all twelve steps, and in recovery. When we’re not sure we believe, when we can’t sing the songs, when we’re frustrated, overwhelmed or betrayed, and when we feel like we’re on the outside.
For all whose lives feel broken, whose dreams have been shattered, or who feel hopeless. For all who have gone through tragedy and are desperately trying to pick up the pieces. Know this. Christmas isn’t just about a baby born long ago, the story of God being with us a long time ago, or of us being with Him a long time in the future. It’s the story of God stepping into the mess of humanity – our mess, of God with us right now, right where we are. In our joy and grief, and , celebrations and tears.
As the bible reminds us:
‘we do not have a High Priest who is unable to sympathize and understand our weaknesses and temptations, but One who has been tempted, knowing exactly how it feels to be human in every respect as we are.’ (Hebrews 4:15)
‘…but He has said…, “My grace is sufficient for you. My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough – always available – regardless of the situation; for My power is being perfected and is completed and shows itself most effectively in your weakness”.’ (2 Corinthians 12:9)
This is our hope and our peace. Knowing that God not only wants to bring peace to us, but that He wants to bring peace through us. So whatever this season brings, whether joy or heartache, hope or uncertainty – remember this: God is with you. He is not distant or detached. He is present, offering His peace, His grace, and His love.
He is with you today, tomorrow, on Christmas day, and every day after. He is not just looking after you. He isn’t merely mindful of you. He’s come to dwell with you.
This is the miracle of Christmas: God with us.
Not only in the good times, but in every moment of our lives.
May His grace and peace be with you!
With Love
The Adeniyis
