"With."

A simple term, really. A word that can truly 'make a difference' in one's life or a specific situation. Here are a few examples: "Will you come with me?" "May I come with you?" Or, perhaps, "It would mean so much to me if you would come with us."

When used in such a way, the term "with" can refer to an invitation, an expression of devotion or love, and maybe even a desire for something more in a relationship.

In Old Testament times, it was understood that there was a sort of barrier between man and God. God created us intending to live in a relationship and share his blessings with us. Mankind, however, from the earliest couple on, seemed to have trouble with that idea, at least in practice. There was rebellion, a rejection of God's words, and, finally, sin. The barrier between God and man became more profound as time passed; there were times when it seemed that man had little patience for God at all! Prophets preached a message of the need for repentance in the lives of men and women of all ages; the message of those prophets, in so many words, was simple, "Won't you come with me?" God yearned to bring us close to Him, love, and bless us.

Finally, God made the decision: He would do something unheard of, and miraculous! He sent his son to earth in the form of a child named Jesus. This 'incarnation' was how God would show us who He was and what He wanted of us. He would help us see what we 'could have been' if we had not rejected God, both as individuals and as a people. Throughout the scriptures, Jesus was referred to by many names. One, though, was particularly significant, and full of meaning: Immanuel.

Most everyone is aware of this name of Jesus, not just because it is in the Bible, but because the very name "Immanuel" has been immortalized in a famous Christmas hymn.

Here are the first couple of lines in the old Hymn, which beautifully encapsulates the essence of God's presence among us:

Emmanuel, Emmanuel, His name is called Emmanuel.

God is with us and revealed in us. His name is Emmanuel.

Did you see those words, "God with us?" That is the literal meaning of the words in the original language from Jesus' day: "With us, God." God was saying to us all, as he gave us this name for His son, "I am going to be with you, from now on." He also told us, "Will you come with me and live a life of faith?"

Jesus, the embodiment of the Incarnation of 'God in the flesh,' says to us all, "Come with me: I love you, and will save you, and will bless you, forever." This 'What?' of the Incarnation is the core of our mission, inviting all to experience the love and salvation of God.

Through His son, Jesus, God's God, proclaims his love and intentions for us all. He says, simply and repeatedly, "I want to be with you. Will you come with me?"

How will you answer the God who calls you to faith? This call is not just a request for belief, but a commitment to live a life of faith, to spread His love and message, and to be a part of our ministry's mission.

Your support is invaluable in spreading the message of our ministry. By sharing our podcasts with your friends and family, you play a significant role in building a community of believers who find strength in our shared faith. We sincerely appreciate your contributions and urge you to inspire others to join us in this mission. Your involvement is significant and integral to our ministry's success, helping to keep our community connected and thriving.

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Thank you for your continued support and involvement. We look forward to continuing this journey with you as an integral part of our ministry. See you next week!