According to Wikipedia, there are 198 different names and titles of Jesus in the Bible listed in Cruden's Concordance, first published in 1737, and continuously in print ever since. The first index of the book is entitled "A collection of the Names and Titles given to Jesus Christ", which lists all the 198 names and titles, each accompanied by a biblical reference. Each of these names or titles focus on one attribute of who Jesus is, but each is equally as important.

Out of all the names of Jesus, I chose to focus on Emmanuel today, which means "God is with us". This year has been challenging in so many ways and I am sure we have felt an array of emotions the past few months. Despite this, I know one thing for certain, God does not change. He keeps his promises. When God sent His Son, Jesus, to be born of Mary, He did it because He wanted us to have a hope and a future. When Jesus gave us His Holy Spirit, he did it for us to have a comforter who would lead and guide us. Everything God does, He does with us in mind. He cares for us and loves us so much that He wanted us to know that He is with us.

As we celebrate Christmas today with our families and friends, let us take a moment to thank God for His continual presence in our midst. Because God gave us Emmanuel, we can have peace knowing that we are never alone. He walks with us and will never leave us. "Rejoice, rejoice, Emmanuel"!

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you for your love and care for us. We can trust your promises and know that we are never alone. I pray that whatever may be on our hearts today, that you would give us peace and allow us to find rest in you. Thank you for family and friends that we can be with today, celebrating the birth of Your Son, Jesus, Emmanuel. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer. In Jesus' name, amen."

Merry Christmas from our family to yours! May God's riches blessings be upon you and may His presence and peace fill your hearts and homes.

1. Matthew 1:23 (KJV).