December 23 — Matthew 1:22–25

All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:

  “Behold, the virgin will be with child
    and will give birth to a son,
  and they will call Him Immanuel”
    (which means, “God with us”).

When Joseph woke up, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and embraced Mary as his wife. But he had no union with her until she gave birth to a Son. And he gave Him the name Jesus.
— Matthew 1:22-25


Matthew reminds us that the birth of Jesus is not an isolated event—it is the fulfillment of a long-promised hope. The prophecy from Isaiah becomes flesh in Mary’s womb, and its meaning becomes the heartbeat of Advent: Immanuel—God with us. This truth is the center of the Christmas story. God does not remain distant, silent, or unreachable. He enters human life, steps into our frailty, and chooses to dwell among us. The God who created galaxies also takes on the vulnerability of a child. Advent teaches us that God’s love is not merely declared; it is embodied.

Joseph’s response continues to offer a model of quiet, steadfast obedience. When he wakes from the dream, he does not delay or debate—he simply obeys. His faith becomes part of the fulfillment of God’s plan. Joseph takes Mary home, protects her, supports her, and eventually names the child Jesus, just as the angel commanded. Naming the child is an act of legal adoption, and Joseph steps fully into the role God gives him. Advent invites us into this same posture of obedience. We may not know the entire story, but we can choose to follow the next step God places before us.

As you reflect on this passage, consider these questions: What does “God with us” mean in your present circumstances? How does the presence of Christ bring comfort, courage, or direction to places where you feel uncertain or overwhelmed? Where might God be calling you to respond with Joseph-like obedience—quiet, steady, without fanfare? And what small act of faithfulness might become part of God’s larger work in or through your life?

For today’s practice, find a quiet place and speak slowly: “Immanuel… God with us… God with me.” Let the words rest on your heart. Sit with the truth that you are never alone—God draws near in Jesus, not just in moments of celebration but in ordinary, weary, or anxious moments as well. If you feel led, write down one place where you need to remember His nearness today. Then take a small step of obedience that aligns with His presence—perhaps an act of kindness, a choice toward patience, or a few minutes of intentional prayer.


Father, 

Thank You for the gift of Immanuel—God with us. Help me rest in Your nearness and trust Your presence in every circumstance. Give me a heart like Joseph’s, willing to obey You quietly and faithfully. Let my life reflect the truth that Jesus has come to dwell with His people. 

In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

-

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