Emmanuel: Finding Connection in God's Presence

 

Summary

In today's reflection, we explore the profound truth that we are never alone, a truth that is beautifully encapsulated in the name Emmanuel, meaning "God with us." This is the heart of the Christmas story, where God, in His great love and desire to be with us, came down in the form of Jesus. This divine presence addresses the deep-seated loneliness that many experience, a loneliness that has been exacerbated by modern societal structures and the recent pandemic. Despite living in a world more connected than ever, many find themselves isolated, leading to emotional and mental health challenges.

The article by Federica Coco highlights a growing loneliness epidemic, particularly in developed nations, where people, especially the youth, spend significant time in isolation. This loneliness distorts our reality and can lead to severe consequences, including increased rates of suicide and social unrest. However, the cure for this loneliness is not merely social or economic but deeply spiritual. It is found in the presence of God, who seeks to be with us, as illustrated in the story of Adam in the Garden of Eden.

God's solution to our hiding and fear is Jesus, who came to show us that we do not need to be afraid of God. The story of Richard Mao's childhood encounter with a disguised Santa Claus serves as a metaphor for recognizing God's gentle presence in our lives. Just as Richard found comfort in recognizing Mr. Cooper behind the Santa mask, we find peace in recognizing Jesus as the Christ, the anointed one who is with us.

The challenge for us is to live out the Emmanuel principle, to consciously invite God's presence into every aspect of our lives. Frank Laubach's journey of surrender and walking with God serves as an inspiring example. By intentionally inviting God into our daily actions and thoughts, we can experience a life transformed by His presence. This Christmas, let us embrace the truth that we are not alone and seek to live each day in the awareness of God's presence with us.

Key Takeaways:

1. Emmanuel: God With Us
The name Emmanuel, meaning "God with us," encapsulates the essence of Christmas. It signifies God's desire to be with humanity, addressing our deepest need for connection and belonging. This divine presence is the ultimate remedy for the loneliness that plagues our modern world. [00:31]

2. The Loneliness Epidemic
Despite technological advancements, loneliness is on the rise, particularly in developed nations. This isolation distorts our perception of reality and can lead to severe emotional and social consequences. The solution lies not in societal changes but in embracing the spiritual truth of God's presence. [01:50]

3. God's Invitation to Relationship
From the beginning, God has sought a relationship with humanity, as seen in the story of Adam. Our tendency to hide from God stems from fear and misunderstanding. Jesus came to dispel these fears, inviting us into a relationship where we can be fully known and loved. [03:28]

4. Recognizing God's Gentle Presence
Just as Richard Mao found comfort in recognizing Mr. Cooper behind the Santa mask, we find peace in recognizing Jesus as the Christ. This recognition transforms our fear into trust, allowing us to experience the fullness of God's love and presence. [06:14]

5. Living the Emmanuel Principle
Frank Laubach's journey of surrender and intentional living with God serves as a model for us. By inviting God into every aspect of our lives, we can experience a profound transformation. This Christmas, let us make it our goal to live each day in the awareness of God's presence with us. [08:56]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:31] - Emmanuel: God With Us
- [01:07] - The Loneliness Epidemic
- [02:39] - Social Exclusion and Reality
- [03:11] - God's Invitation to Relationship
- [04:15] - Jesus: God's Solution to Fear
- [05:08] - The Santa Claus Metaphor
- [06:14] - Recognizing God's Gentle Presence
- [06:41] - The Purpose of John's Gospel
- [07:26] - The Good News of Christmas
- [07:59] - Living the Emmanuel Principle
- [08:42] - Frank Laubach's Journey
- [09:26] - Walking with God
- [10:47] - The Each One Teach One Movement
- [11:12] - An Experiment in Life with God

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: Emmanuel - God With Us

Bible Reading:
1. Matthew 1:23 - "The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him Emmanuel" (which means "God with us").
2. Genesis 3:9-10 - "But the Lord God called to the man, 'Where are you?' He answered, 'I heard you in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid.'"
3. John 20:30-31 - "Jesus performed many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not recorded in this book. But these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name."

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Observation Questions:

1. What does the name "Emmanuel" signify in the context of the Christmas story? How does it relate to God's desire for humanity? [00:31]

2. According to the sermon, what are some of the societal factors contributing to the loneliness epidemic mentioned by Federica Coco? [01:07]

3. How does the story of Adam in the Garden of Eden illustrate humanity's tendency to hide from God? [03:28]

4. What was the significance of Richard Mao's childhood encounter with Santa Claus in understanding God's presence? [06:14]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the concept of "God with us" challenge the modern perception of loneliness and isolation? What spiritual implications does this have for individuals today? [01:50]

2. In what ways does the story of Adam and Eve's hiding from God reflect our own fears and misunderstandings about God's presence in our lives? [03:28]

3. How does recognizing Jesus as the Christ transform our understanding of God's presence and our relationship with Him? [07:26]

4. What does Frank Laubach's journey of surrender and intentional living with God teach us about experiencing God's presence in our daily lives? [08:56]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt alone or isolated. How might the truth of "Emmanuel, God with us" have changed your perspective during that time? [00:31]

2. The sermon mentions a growing loneliness epidemic. What steps can you take to reach out to someone who might be experiencing loneliness in your community? [01:50]

3. Consider the ways you might be "hiding" from God in your life. What fears or misunderstandings are keeping you from fully embracing His presence? [03:28]

4. How can you intentionally invite God's presence into your daily actions and thoughts, as Frank Laubach did? What specific practices can you implement this week? [08:56]

5. Think about a situation where you felt afraid of God's presence or judgment. How can recognizing Jesus as the Christ help you overcome that fear and build trust in God? [07:26]

6. This Christmas, how can you consciously live out the Emmanuel principle in your interactions with family and friends? What specific actions can you take to embody God's presence to others? [07:59]

7. Identify one area of your life where you struggle to feel God's presence. What practical steps can you take to invite Him into that area and experience transformation? [09:26]

Devotional

Day 1: Emmanuel: God’s Presence as the Antidote to Loneliness
In a world where loneliness is increasingly prevalent, the name Emmanuel, meaning "God with us," offers profound comfort and hope. This name encapsulates the essence of Christmas, reminding us that God desires to be with humanity, addressing our deepest need for connection and belonging. Despite technological advancements that connect us superficially, many still feel isolated. The divine presence of God is the ultimate remedy for this loneliness, offering a sense of belonging and peace that transcends human understanding. By embracing the truth of Emmanuel, we can find solace in knowing that we are never truly alone. [00:31]

Isaiah 41:10 (ESV): "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."

Reflection: In what ways can you invite the presence of Emmanuel into your daily life to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation?


Day 2: The Spiritual Solution to the Loneliness Epidemic
The modern world faces a growing loneliness epidemic, particularly in developed nations where societal structures often lead to isolation. This loneliness distorts our perception of reality and can have severe emotional and social consequences. While societal changes may offer temporary relief, the true solution lies in embracing the spiritual truth of God's presence. By recognizing that God is with us, we can find a deeper sense of connection and purpose that transcends the limitations of our social environments. This spiritual awareness can transform our lives, providing the peace and fulfillment that our hearts long for. [01:50]

Psalm 68:6 (ESV): "God settles the solitary in a home; he leads out the prisoners to prosperity, but the rebellious dwell in a parched land."

Reflection: How can you actively seek God's presence as a solution to loneliness in your life, rather than relying solely on social or technological connections?


Day 3: God’s Invitation to a Fearless Relationship
From the beginning, God has sought a relationship with humanity, as illustrated in the story of Adam in the Garden of Eden. Our tendency to hide from God often stems from fear and misunderstanding. However, Jesus came to dispel these fears, inviting us into a relationship where we can be fully known and loved. This divine invitation encourages us to step out of hiding and embrace a fearless relationship with God. By accepting this invitation, we can experience the fullness of God's love and the peace that comes from being in His presence. [03:28]

1 John 4:18 (ESV): "There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love."

Reflection: What fears or misunderstandings are keeping you from fully embracing a relationship with God, and how can you begin to overcome them today?


Day 4: Recognizing God’s Gentle Presence
Just as Richard Mao found comfort in recognizing Mr. Cooper behind the Santa mask, we find peace in recognizing Jesus as the Christ. This recognition transforms our fear into trust, allowing us to experience the fullness of God's love and presence. By seeing beyond the surface and acknowledging God's gentle presence in our lives, we can find comfort and assurance in His constant companionship. This awareness helps us navigate life's challenges with confidence, knowing that we are supported by a loving and present God. [06:14]

Psalm 139:7-10 (ESV): "Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me."

Reflection: How can you become more aware of God's gentle presence in your daily life, and what difference would this awareness make in your current circumstances?


Day 5: Living the Emmanuel Principle
Frank Laubach's journey of surrender and intentional living with God serves as a model for us. By inviting God into every aspect of our lives, we can experience a profound transformation. This Christmas, let us make it our goal to live each day in the awareness of God's presence with us. By consciously inviting God into our daily actions and thoughts, we can experience a life transformed by His presence. This intentional living not only enriches our spiritual journey but also impacts those around us, as we become conduits of God's love and grace. [08:56]

Colossians 3:17 (ESV): "And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."

Reflection: What specific steps can you take to invite God into every aspect of your life, and how might this intentional living transform your daily experiences?

Quotes

You Are Not Alone wherever you are, whatever your living arrangements, however your life is going, You Are Not Alone because of the one who came at Christmas time Jesus whose name was Emmanuel this is from the gospel of Matthew in the first chapter of the 23rd verse he will be called Emmanuel which is God With Us which is the great desire of God and the great need of the human heart that's what we're going to be talking about as we journey towards Christmas. [00:17:58]

There is a trajectory of loneliness an arc of loneliness interestingly enough mostly in wealthier what we think of as developed Nations that has been going on for decades Robert Putnam wrote bowling alone 20 years ago uh even centuries it turns out centuries ago even in the west almost nobody lived in isolation and now she looks at people who do and in some Western countries it's up to 60 percent of people. [00:110:22]

Young people she writes are at a very disturbing level compared to a decade ago spending sometimes as many as eight hours a day being more isolated and because of that emotional health issues are more prevalent than ever suicide is on the rise whereby Meister writes that among other things a sense of social exclusion not just being alone but feeling lonely distorts our sense of reality. [00:140:34]

We were not made to be alone God's Great longing is to be with us and really the cure for loneliness ultimately is not social or educational or financial it's spiritual we see the beginnings of it in the Bible in the early days in the fall when God comes to be with Adam and Adam does not want to be with God and God asks where are you he's reflect inviting Adam to reflect. [00:185:34]

On uh Adam's decisions and Adam's well-being and Adam's response was I heard you in the garden and I was afraid because I was naked so I hid and we have been hiding from God I hide from God in my mind when I want to do something that I don't want God to be a part of when I would like to retain my capacity to lie in case I need it or when I want to indulge in some lust or some greed then I shut God out of my thoughts and because I become fragmented inside myself I'm no longer able to deeply be with other people also. [00:213:06]

And so God devised a way to address this problem and the god of the universe The God Who made everything became a human being and entered into our lives so that that old problem I heard you got I was afraid I was afraid that you would hurt me I was afraid that you would make me miss out I was afraid that if I was around you uh then my well-being wouldn't be taken care of so that we could know we did not have to be afraid of that God he came in the person of Jesus of Nazareth a little baby in a manger. [00:255:12]

The person playing the role of Santa that day as it turned out was the man from our church Mr Cooper I knew him well although I did not recognize him in his disguise sensing my fright Santa whispered in my ear in a gentle voice that only I could hear Richard it's okay it's me Mr Cooper don't be afraid and then Richard said I could be okay then I knew it was all right. [00:357:24]

Jesus performed many many more signs that are in this book but these are written in order that you might believe or trust lean wholly on the fact that Jesus is the Christ the Messiah we sometimes think of Christ as his last name but it wasn't it meant the anointed one the Son of God John says the one who created and is the Lord of everything but this man Jesus of Nazareth The Humble Carpenter the rabbi the friend of sinners the Healer God this is that this Jesus is the Christ. [00:401:34]

Frank Lobby was a remarkable human being he had I think a PhD in sociology went to Princeton Columbia he was a missionary in the Philippines he had been there for 15 years suffered great loss two children had died a lot of career disappointment and he was deeply uh discontented with his own experience of life and God so he began an experiment to see how much he would be able to make his life a journey together with God we do that mostly in our minds. [00:490:02]

For the fast few days I have been experimenting in a more complete surrender than ever before I am taken by a deliberate Act of the will enough time from each hour to give God much thought yesterday and today I have made a new adventure which is not easy to express I am feeling God in each Movement by an act of will ing that he shall direct these fingers that now strike this keyboard willing that he shall pour through my steps as I walk the scriptures would often talk about the Emmanuel Principle as Walking with God. [00:534:54]

I am disgusted with the pettiness and futility of my unled self if the way out is not more perfect slavery to God then what is the way out Paul speaks of our Liberty in Christ I am trying to be utterly free from everybody free from my own self but completely enslaved to the will of God every moment of the day and Frank lavik began a remarkable Journey in the process of doing this he discovered a method for teaching literacy that's part of what he was doing in the Philippines where he was where someone would become able to learn and then they would teach somebody else the world literacy movement Each one teach one that began with Frank lombeck but really it began with his life with God. [00:599:64]

As you walk through the day allow the thought to come back Emmanuel Jesus is saying hey it's me don't be afraid and then ask God would you pour into my very steps as I walk and the words that I say make today an experiment in life with God. [00:659:77]

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Transcript
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