All I Want for Christmas: Hope

Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Seven hundred years before Jesus came, the prophet Isaiah proclaimed the promise. A virgin would conceive. God’s Son would be born, and his name would be called “Immanuel (which means God with us)” (Matt 1:23). God would come to live among us, and he would never leave us. Immanuel is our great hope. 

His name is Immanuel…even when the doctor says, “Cancer.” 

His name is Immanuel…even in the darkest night.

His name is Immanuel…even when she says, “I don’t love you anymore.”

His name is Immanuel…even when he leaves.

His name is Immanuel…even when your heart is breaking.

His name is Immanuel…even when the doctors say there’s no hope.

His name is Immanuel…even as you walk away from the grave.

His name is Immanuel…even amid the grief.

His name is Immanuel…even when you feel alone.

His name is Immanuel…even when the job goes away.

His name is Immanuel…even when your child is far from home. 

His name always is and always will be Immanuel.

There are many verses that remind us of this hope—this certain confidence. We will wrap up today with just a few. 

Deuteronomy 31:8 It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed. 

Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Isaiah 41:10 Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. 

Hebrews 13:6 So we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?” 

Matthew 28:20 And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age. 

Lord Jesus, thank you for always being with us. Thank you for the promise that you will never leave us. Thank you for being Immanuel! Amen.