In the first century, many in Palestine longed for a Messiah to save them from Rome and poverty. I doubt many were anticipating a birth, a child, or for a prophet and healer to walk the streets and care for the concerns of the masses. But there was a movement among the very poor, praying for a change, for the strength of God with us, as expressed in Mary’s song in Luke 1.

Paul introduces in Romans the good news of Jesus Christ descended from David, “declared to be Son of God with power according to the spirit of holiness by resurrection from the dead, through whom we have received grace.”

Those who supported Rome assumed the emperor was the son of God. In Matthew and Luke, the birth narratives proclaim the alternate meaning that Jesus, not the emperor, is Son of God and center of the universe.

The power hungry, corrupt emperors, and all like them are not holding the universe together. Far from it! Their reign is temporary–no matter how closely or not they align with our values.

Emmanuel, God with us, is not a power grab to secure resources and comfort for the strong. God with us is a bold declaration that we, like Mary and Joseph, live by faith. Faith alone. All who practice trusting God-with-us find this sure hope. As with Jesus, our birth, life, and death are held in the presence of God. God with us.

Yesterday the sun was lowest in the sky for us. For many this is a season of grief and disappointment. While some enjoy the comfort of family and friends, others face loneliness and uncertainty. Yours can be a “God presence” for those who struggle. Even if we are also struggling, by the love of Christ, we are “God with” the one who is lonely and feels abandoned with the gift of our time. Unexpectedly, in those moments they become a God presence to us also. May we find the opportunity and courage to practice God with us. Amen.