This sermon explores the deep longing for God's presence and the obstacles that obscure it. While we often associate God's presence with emotional experiences—tears or goosebumps—He is a constant reality. "Emmanuel" (God with us) is not merely a seasonal Christmas theme; it is the entire storyline of the Bible, from the Garden of Eden to the New Creation. God's relentless pursuit is defined by the promise: "I will be your God, you will be my people, and I will dwell in your midst." However, significant barriers often keep us from experiencing the face of God.

Scripture References

• Genesis 3:1-13: The Fall, introducing disobedience and hiding.
• Psalm 51: David's plea not to be cast from God's presence.
• Isaiah 6:1-5: The confrontation between human sin and God's holiness.
• Luke 2:41-52: Jesus' parents losing Him by assuming He was in the crowd.

Key Points

1. The Narrative of Presence The Bible is bookended by God dwelling with man. It begins in Eden, moves through the Tabernacle and Temple, finds its fulfillment in Jesus, continues in the Church through the Holy Spirit, and culminates in the New Creation where no temple is needed.
2. Seven Barriers to Intimacy
   • Disobedience: Sin naturally creates distance.
   • Hiding & Shame: Guilt says "I did something bad"; shame says "I am bad," causing us to hide from God.
   • Lies: The enemy deceives us about God's character and the severity of sin.
   • Holiness: God's unapproachable light exposes our darkness (Isaiah 6).
   • Unforgiveness: Jesus teaches that holding grudges hinders our prayers.
   • Busyness: Prosperity often leads us to forget the God who blessed us.
   • Presumption: Like Mary and Joseph, we can travel days assuming Jesus is with us in the "religious crowd" without actually consulting Him.

Conclusion

During the holidays, we celebrate God being with us, but the pressing question is: Are we with Him? It is dangerous to assume His presence while living distracted, disobedient, or unforgiving lives. Jesus came to remove every barrier—sin, shame, and separation—so that we could once again walk face-to-face with God.

Calls to Action

1. Stop Hiding: Come out of isolation. Confess your sin and let God cover your shame.
2. Check Your Assumptions: Don't assume God is with you just because you are at church. Actively seek His face daily.
3. Release Unforgiveness: Let go of grudges that block your experience of God's nearness.

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