A Song of Grace, Part 2

Grace: Immanuel, God with Us

Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

When my first child arrived, my nineteen-year-old self-fancied herself prepared for this event. Kylie’s birth was much anticipated, and my husband and I were as ready as we knew to be. The car seat was anchored in the back seat of the car, the crib was built and bumpered, the baby clothes neatly folded in one of our dresser drawers. Then, she arrived, red and squalling, completely helpless and dependent on two very inexperienced people. As we drove her home from the hospital, panic electrified my exhaustion. Where was the manual for this little, tiny soul?

I could barely sleep when she slept. At first, every sound she made launched me to her side. Was she still breathing? If you are a parent, surely you can relate. Her every cry was heard and answered with what we determined her to need. That very picture came to mind as I studied this beautiful word, Grace.

2 Chronicles 16:9 For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him.

God leans toward, inclines with intent to listen for every cry, undeservedly extends Himself toward the needs of His children.

In contrast to earthly parents, God is not inexperienced or prone to mistakes. His wisdom always knows exactly what His children need, and His power provides precisely what that is in His perfect timing.

Just as undeserving as we are of saving grace, the grace of His presence with us is equally unearned. It is freely available for the asking, abundantly flowing from His Word, and able to meet every person at every point of their need.

The most amazing part about this truth is that God stoops over those He loves to look for opportunity to show His goodness to them. As He commanded the priests in Israel to speak His name and His blessings over His people, He still delights to make all of His grace available to people today.

How do you know that He loves you? Well, if you are breathing, then you fall into the category of “whosoever.”

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Even today, God’s Word speaks His blessings over His people. May you walk in the light of His countenance and know His presence with you every step of your day.

Numbers 6:27-29 The Lord bless thee, and keep thee:
The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:
The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

Have a blessed day, my friends!