The answer is: God is with us

Immanuel (OT) or Emmanuel (NT) appears 3 times in the Bible and means "God with us".

The name Emmanuel, which means "God with us," is a beautiful focal point in the birth of Jesus and holds deep significance. When we consider the first mention in Isaiah 7:14, it sets the stage for a prophecy about a future sign—one that symbolizes hope and divine presence among humanity.

It’s fascinating to see how this name unfolds through the scriptures. Referred to in modern translations as "Immanuel" in the Hebrew text and "Emmanuel" in the Greek context, these variations point to a richness in the interpretation of divine connection across cultures and languages. Essentially, the concept of God being with us is central, suggesting that divine care and presence are not distant or abstract concepts; rather, they are a lived experience.

In the New Testament, you can find Emmanuel stemming from the early chapters of Matthew, where it draws a direct link to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Jesus' arrival signifies not just the culmination of prophecies, but also a reminder of how deeply intertwined our human experience is with the divine. This idea illuminates many themes throughout the Bible—like with Moses encountering God in the burning bush or the continuous assurance in Psalm 23, "I will fear no evil, for you are with me."

Ultimately, as you meditate on the birth narrative, consider this profound declaration: no matter the circumstances of life, the celebration of Emmanuel reinforces an enduring message—compassion, hope, and steadfast presence are always within reach.