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Blog
Thankful for Immanuel
And God said, “I will be with you.” Exodus 3:12a
*Written by Rachel Baker
On the rare days when my son is the only one at home with me, I know from the start of the day that we will be spending a lot of time in close proximity. It’s not that he always wants to do things with me, but he likes to know that I’m close by – just in case. If I’m being honest, I completely understand how he feels. There is comfort in knowing that the person who cares for you is right there with you, able to help when you need it.
There are many times in scripture when we see the I AM extending this same comfort to His people. When the Lord tells Moses he is being sent to Pharaoh to bring the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses responds with doubt and fear: “Who am I that I should go?” (Exod. 3:11). This sounds a lot like my kids when they are nervous and doubt their own abilities: “But, I can’t do it!” The I AM reassures Moses by saying, “I will be with you” (Exod. 3:12). In the book of Judges, we see where Gideon is told to go and save Israel from Midian. In a reaction similar to Moses, he questions the Lord’s command, asking how he can do such a huge task. The I AM is consistent in His response: “I will be with you” (Judges 6:16).
In this season of thanksgiving, I am especially grateful for the ultimate example of God’s presence among us:
“...an angel of the Lord appeared to [Joseph] in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.’ All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: ‘The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel’ – which means, ‘God with us.’” Matthew 1:20b-23
Not only did our Lord come down to live among us, He also promises to never leave us:
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matt. 28:20b)
Just like my son is comforted by my presence, we can take comfort in knowing that when we need Him most, we are able to rest in the I AM who is with us... always.
The Spiritual Rhythm of Thanksgiving
The books of Ruth, Esther, Ecclesiastes, Song of Songs, and Lamentations are known as the Scrolls of the Megilloth. These five books of history, poetry and prophecy are read every year during designated festivals as part of the spiritual rhythms for the Jewish nation. This practice has been in place for centuries as a constant reminder of God’s salvation, His eternal plan, and everlasting love.
Each book or scroll reveals and reminds us of God’s salvation, plan, and love in different ways: Ruth through relationships, Esther through struggles, Ecclesiastes through wisdom, Song of Songs through a love story, and Lamentations through lament.
In the United States, inspired by the Thanksgiving holiday at the end of November, many people have adopted the practice of the spiritual rhythm of thanksgiving throughout that month. Before the commercialization of Christmas, the opportunity to pause and give thanks is vital for resetting our focus and renewing our faith.
• When I give thanks, I remember that God is the Great Provider and that His salvation is complete.
• When I give thanks, I recognize God’s eternal plan and trust that He knows what is best.
• When I give thanks, I dwell in God’s love and rest in His Presence.
1 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
His love endures forever.
2 Give thanks to the God of gods.
His love endures forever.
3 Give thanks to the Lord of lords:
His love endures forever.
Psalm 136:1-3
