For Joseph and Mary, the crude surroundings and odd circumstances of Jesus’ birth probably added to the long list of unanswered questions. What did it all mean?  In the midst of the chaos, there’s a moment Luke describes of calm serenity:

“But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.” – Luke 2:19 NKJV

Something brought a “stillness” to Mary’s heart in the middle of the uncertainty; she had a Baby…the physical presence of Almighty God. She didn’t know what the future held, but she knew she held the future in her arms. What a beautiful moment; a young mother pulling the face of God close to hers as she pondered His majesty. Over the next thirty-three years, how many times would she hug him and be reminded that God was with her?

For our moments of doubt and uncertainty, God is with us. As disciples of Christ, He’s promised never to leave us or forsake us (Matt. 28:20).

• When there’s fear, Immanuel.
• When there’s intimidation, Immanuel.
• When there’s insecurity, Immanuel.
• When there’s sorrow, Immanuel.
• When there’s failure, Immanuel.
• When there’s loneliness, Immanuel.
• When there’s pain, Immanuel.
• When there’s abandonment, Immanuel.

He is love. He is joy. He is peace. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. What could be better than “God with us.”? Absolutely nothing.