Scripture: Isaiah 7:10–14; Matthew 1:22–23 (NRSV)
Key Verse: “They shall name him Emmanuel.” (Matthew 1:23b)
Reflection:
The promise of Emmanuel does not arrive with a detailed plan or a clear roadmap. It comes with a name: God-with-us. This is not a promise that everything will make sense. It is a promise that we will not face uncertainty alone.
Advent love reshapes fear by shifting our focus from certainty to companionship. God does not wait for clarity before showing up. God draws near precisely when answers remain incomplete, offering presence instead of control.
In naming Jesus Emmanuel, Scripture reminds us that love is not rooted in understanding. Love is grounded in closeness. When fear suggests we need to have everything figured out, Advent gently responds: God is already here.
Application:
Sit quietly for a few minutes today, intentionally noticing signs of God’s nearness in your surroundings.
Writing Prompt:
What questions are you holding this Advent, and how might God be meeting you through them?
Prayer:
Emmanuel,
be near to us when answers feel far away.
Teach us to trust your presence
more than our understanding.
Amen.