Before starting this devotion, find a quiet place. Set aside some time to be undisturbed. Turn your phone to airplane mode so you can fully focus on God. If needed, close your eyes and quiet your mind to better hear God’s voice. You can do this by repeating Jesus’ name or simply asking the Holy Spirit to clear your thoughts. Take as much time as you need to become aware of God’s presence.

I remember as a child visiting a large Myer store in an Adelaide shopping centre with my cousin, brother, mum, and grandma. Growing up in the country, such a big shopping centre was a novelty, and I loved it! I enjoyed exploring the shops and seeing all the toys I couldn’t afford. But one time, my brother, cousin, and I got distracted and found ourselves lost within the store. As children, we couldn’t see over the racks and shelves. Panic set in. Tears and screams filled the air. We ran around for what felt like an eternity, desperately searching for our mum and grandma. The feeling of being lost and alone as a child is terrifying. Fortunately, a kind older couple helped us and took us to the service desk, where an announcement was made. It didn’t take long for our parents to find us.

One of my favourite names for Jesus is Immanuel. It reminds me of His incredible act of coming to be with us. He became human to guide us out of darkness and hopelessness into a place of freedom, safety, and peace. The moment Mary and Joseph learned that God would be physically present with them must have been profoundly moving, especially for Joseph, who seemed initially doubtful. But the encounter with the angel changed everything. He quoted the prophet Isaiah, “They shall call his name Immanuel.” I can only imagine the awe Mary and Joseph must have felt knowing that God would be with them through a miraculous birth.

Spend some time in prayer thinking about the closeness that we now have with Jesus and what that brings to you every day.