Reflection:
Suggested full reading: Matthew 1:18-23
Much in today’s society is focused on what we can do to achieve success and satisfaction. As society propels itself away from the recognition of absolutes to embrace flexible relativity, it seems to me that there is an increase in depression, heartache and loneliness.
The good news is that God has taken the initiative to come to us. Our reading today presents the ‘Christmas story’ communicated in prophesy through the ages and presented as a historical event. It declares that God is with us. God has taken the initiative to intervene into human history, to intervene in our lives if we will recognise his intervention.
Jesus is recorded in Revelation 3:20, saying:
“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”
He is Emmanuel, God with us, if we will accept that invitation and open the door to our lives, our hearts and our circumstances.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I open my heart to you today. Make your home in my life. Amen.