Most of us have this idealistic idea about Christmas, but it will never be perfect. And you know what? The first Christmas wasn’t perfect either. It was beyond messy. So why worry when things go wrong this year?

In today’s culture, we fear “getting old,” and many older adults feel less valuable than they should. But Isabel Tom is encouraging families to honor our elders and cherish them — for their wisdom, experience, and availability in our lives. Also, growing older means we are still growing, still learning, and can continue to bless others.

Emmanuel—“God with us”—is more than a Christmas name; it’s a lived reality for everyday decisions, uncertain transitions, and moments when courage feels thin. Rooted in Matthew 1:23, this devotional reflection highlights how God’s presence shows up faithfully in seasons of change, reminding us that wherever we go, He goes before us and never leaves us alone.

Highlights

• Emmanuel means God is present, not distant or detached.

• Stepping into the unknown often reveals God’s faithfulness more clearly.

• God provides protection, community, and provision in unexpected ways.

• Small details can become powerful reminders of God’s care.

• Scripture reassures us that God goes before us and stands with us.

• The same God who guided past seasons is with us right now.

Gift Inspiration: Crosswalk's Holiday Gift Guide

Looking for a meaningful way to celebrate the season? Check out our Holiday Gift Guide—from beautifully illustrated Bibles and devotionals to novels, greeting cards, and picture books, there’s something for everyone on your list. Wrap up stories for loved ones, tuck a book into your own nightstand, and join us in celebrating the wonder of giving this Christmas!

Full Transcript Below:

Emmanuel: God Is With You, Even Now

By: Alexis A. Goring

Bible Reading:
“Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’” - Matthew 1:23 NLT

I sat at a crossroads in my mind. 

Physically, I was in the driver’s seat of my car in the parking lot between Panera Bread and my favorite local bookstore. But mentally, my mind was weighing the pros and cons of a new job offer. Minutes earlier, Erin, who was the managing editor for the newspaper where I worked as a freelance reporter, had called me to say a publisher of a newspaper in Montana had called her asking for a recommendation about me. She said he sounded very interested in hiring me. In fact, she thought I was getting the job! I was excited but also apprehensive. 

If they offered me this job, then was I ready to leave the only home I’d known, pack my bags, and relocate from Maryland to Montana? After all, I was a city and suburb East Coast Girl. Was I ready to take this leap of faith and move out to the West of the USA without knowing anyone there or what to expect?

Within a matter of days, the publisher interviewed me via Zoom and offered me the job. I froze. Was this really happening? After a moment of silence, I asked for time to think it over. He agreed. Later that day, my Mom—convinced this was the right opportunity for me at that time—said I should accept the job offer and prepare to move. After prayer—and considering the fact that I needed a job, but no local jobs had been offered to me for several months prior—I agreed and told the publisher I would move to Montana.

My Mom

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Jesus came as the long-awaited Messiah—the promised King of Israel, who would bring to fulfilment the promises of God for a needy and oppressed people. And for all who will turn to him and trust in him, he is to us the Saviour-King.

I struggle with guilt over my past adultery and divorce. When you warn people about not receiving God's grace, who are you talking to? Aren't believers forgiven and living under grace already? Help me understand, and I need encouragement. My son got taken in by a movement I'm worried about. I feel responsible and guilty! What can I do? What do you think of women participating in church? As deacons? As exhorters? What does the Bible say? And what about the two passages on women remaining silent? I'm so grateful for The Grace Message. Thank you!