Anyone who is familiar with the traditional carols that are sung at Christmas will know the word Emmanuel. During the Advent period, we sing: O come, O come Emmanuel! but many people may not know that the word Emmanuel means God-with-us.
The prophet Ezekiel had a vision of the holy city. In chapter 43 of his Book, he describes a moment when he stood in the inner court of the temple and heard someone speaking to him. The voice said: Son of man, this is where my throne shall be, this is where I will set the souls of my feet, here I will dwell among the children of Israel forever (Ez 43:7). This vision was fulfilled when God sent Jesus to live among us. After the Ascension, God sent the Holy Spirit - the third person of the Trinity - to dwell among us. This means that the prophecy of Ezekiel has been fulfilled: Emmanuel - God is with us!
God is dwelling in our midst. If we have even the slightest doubt, all we need to do is open our eyes and look around us. God is present in the life of a newborn, God is present in the exuberance of a child, God is present in the curiosity of a student, God is present in the moments of worry and concern faced by every parent, God is present to all those who are sick and suffering, God is present to all those who are growing weak and feeble, God is present to those who are preparing to meet Him. God is with us. Look for Him today, and if you find Him, say hello.
Have a great day.
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