The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and they will call him “Immanuel” (which means "God with us”). (Matthew 1:23 NIV)
God is with us. When God became flesh and walked among us through the person of Jesus, He became a real and visible presence in our world. The Gospels tell us that Jesus was born of the Virgin Mary, performed miracles, preached in synagogues and on mountaintops, then died on a cross for mankind. He was fully divine and fully human, with a mission to save us from our sins. No greater example of God being with us exists than through His incarnation as Jesus Christ.
But that was a long time ago – over 2000 years! And since Jesus is not physically with us now, many struggle to believe. Even the disciples hesitated when Jesus was standing right in front of them, scars and all. At times we, too, have been that Doubting Thomas, especially in a culture that minimizes Jesus’ power and purpose. We’re surrounded by mixed messages that promote independence and self-reliance while His message is one of surrender and trust.
So, an important question to ask yourself is not, “Do I believe in Jesus?” but “Do I believe Him?” Jesus’ message is clear. From His birth as Immanuel to His final words before ascension, “I will be with you always,” He assures us that He will never leave us.
When have you most felt the presence of Jesus? What have you done in your times of doubt?
Then He said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.” (John 20:27 NIV)