READ: ISAIAH 7:14; MATTHEW 1:18-23; 28:20

When I entered the auditorium, my stomach fluttered with nervous energy. But spotting Debbie in the audience reminded me that a friend would be there cheering me on.

During my first year at college, I was a drum major in the marching band. Then, near the end of that school year, I tried out again for the position of drum major, hoping to continue in this role.

Auditions took place in a large auditorium and were open to the public. Debbie had been mentoring me in my faith that year, and I asked her for prayers for the upcoming tryouts. She agreed to pray but also committed to more. Debbie told me I could count on her presence in that auditorium. When I walked into the building on the day of tryouts, my friend and mentor had already taken her seat and greeted me with a wide smile. Debbie showed up for me, and she showed up to be with me.

One of my favorite ways the Bible refers to Jesus is as Immanuel, meaning “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). When we trust in Jesus Christ for forgiveness for our sins, we enter a new relationship with God as our Father. Sin no longer separates us from Him because Jesus has bridged that gap through His death and resurrection. In this relationship with God, as His children, we can count on Him to be available to us with His power and comfort. Yet Christ offers more than the opportunity to lean on God’s wisdom and look to Him for compassion. In the Person of Christ, God has come to be with us—walking alongside us, suffering with us, rejoicing with us. Though Debbie supported me from the audience, Jesus was right there with me on stage as I performed. • Allison Wilson Lee

• Jesus came to be “God with us.” Why is this good news? What encouragement does it give us?

• Where in your life do you need to experience Jesus as Immanuel right now? Maybe you’re facing an overwhelming decision, a season of loneliness, or a tough situation that calls for perseverance. Consider taking a moment to talk to Him about whatever is on your mind.

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel” (which means “God with us”). Matthew 1:22-23 (NIV)