(We are taking a break from our Wednesday at the Well Bible studies because I know time is often limited during the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. Wednesday at the Well will resume after Christmas. Have a Blessed Thanksgiving, a Merry Christmas, and a Wonderful New Year! - Gayle)
Bible Reading: Isaiah 7:14
Every baby is given a name. In some cultures, names are chosen before the baby is born. In other countries, babies aren’t given a name until they are one year old. In other
countries, babies are given a temporary name. When they reach a certain age, they choose their own permanent name.
Jesus’ name was chosen by God. Many years before Jesus’ birth, God spoke through the prophet Isaiah saying, “But the Lord will still show you this sign: The young woman is pregnant and will give birth to a son. She will name him Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14).
“Immanuel” is a special name. It means “God with us.” God called Jesus Immanuel. On that first Christmas, Jesus, God’s Son, was born in the body of a human baby to be with us to teach, heal, and prepare people for God’s kingdom.
Why?
Jesus, and His Heavenly Father want an eternal relationship with us.
At the end of Immanuel’s time on earth, He died on the cross so we could be forgiven of all our sin. When we believe that, and ask God’s forgiveness, we can go to heaven to live with God forever. We are able to have an eternal relationship with God.
“The virgin will be pregnant and will give birth to a son. They will name him Immanuel. (Immanuel means ‘God with us.’)” Matthew1:23
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Immanuel. Thank You for the promise of an eternal relationship with You. In Jesus' name. Amen.