The Christmas season can bring about many emotions. For many, it is usually filled with joy and excitement as we gather in our homes and churches to celebrate the birth of our Savior with family and friends.

However, for some, this time of year may amplify grief and sadness.

Maybe it's from the loss of a loved one.

Maybe it's from loneliness.

Maybe this time of year doesn't quite look like you thought it would due to varying circumstances...

When Isaiah prophesied the coming Messiah who would be called Immanuel - God with us - that name was given for good reason (Isaiah 7:14).

Not only would He come to earth to live among men, but through His death and resurrection, He would make it possible for Him to dwell within us.

So no matter what, God would be with us.

When we feel lonely and sad, God is with us.

When our hearts ache to have that loved one beside us, God is with us.

When things don't quite look like we thought they would, God is with us.

He is not a distant God who is bothered by our pain, but He is a God who comes near (Psalm 34:18) and stays with us.

This holiday season, may this promise be a soothing balm to hurting hearts...

God is with us.

- Autumn