Immanuel or Emmanuel—came up in my devotions last week. I think of it as a term we see at Christmas mainly and means God with us. As I was reading that morning I thought how amazing it would be to have Jesus right here with me, to feel his physical touch, to visually see Him, and have Him go with me into my day. And He quietly said “you have the Holy Spirit, who is with you always. He goes with you wherever life takes you.” And I am so thankful. I admit sometimes I want that physical and visual and I think if I do, there are others who want and need it as well. What am I doing to be Jesus to others? Am I looking for opportunities to encourage someone? Am I willing to give a high five or hug when the Spirit nudges me? Do I smile at those I meet – that clerk, or waitress who does not appear to be loving his/her job? Maybe during those times we need that extra something on our journey, we will reach out and be Jesus to someone else. May I be listening for that nudging and obey. May we remember God has given us the Holy Spirit to help with life.
For God has not given us a spirit of timidity but of power and love and discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7