The name Immanuel means “God with us.”  Even in the garden, God showed His desire to be “with man” as He chose to walk with man daily.  When the Isaiah scripture was given, King Ahaz and the nation of Israel were facing war and were choosing to depend upon a foreign army for help instead of God.  God showed that he still desired to walk with man,and to reassure man of his presence even when man was living for himself instead of for God.  So He takes the initiative to let us know that He is with us, just as He did King Ahaz .   Many of us find ourselves walking in seemingly dark seasons as we face Christmas this year.   There is uncertainty in our country and economy, and many of us will go into this season with seemingly unchanging situations, failing health or the pain of loss through death of someone we love. Yet in the midst of darkness, we have seen a great light.  The light dawned the day that Jesus took on flesh and came to earth in the form of a helpless baby.  He grew to manhood and lived 33 sinless years only to die a horrible death.  But the precious gift of His life for ours gives us the presence of God in our hearts and lives—not just now on earth, but for forever, if we will choose to accept that gift. A place of forgiveness, security, peace and comfort are ours because of “God with us.”This holiday season let’s allow the Savior to turn our worry and fear into thankfulness and rejoicing.  God is with us!!     You are another reason that we have to rejoice this holiday season.  You are such an important part of this ministry through your prayers for our safety and for words to share. Thank you for your encouragement and through your financial gifts.  In each place the Lord send us, we take you in our hearts. You are an important part of people coming to know Jesus both near and far.  We are able to keep going because of the faithfulness of our God and you, his servants.  Thank you for your continued love for Him and us at Complete in Christ Ministries.

Merry Christmas and may God richly bless you and your family.