ADVENT2025 Guest Post | Bridget A. Thomas

This is the first of two ADVENT2025 Guest Posts written by my fellow Christian blogger and author, Bridget A. Thomas.

• Author and speaker who focuses on Christian themes, including faith, contentment, and living freely in Jesus.
• Notable works: Giving God Your Whole Heart: The Path to True Fulfillment, Every Day Is a Gift, and You Are Redeemed.

I pray you will be blessed by her ADVENT2025 offering.

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Emmanuel – God With Us

Someone once told me that Christmas wasn’t a religious holiday. As a Christian, I was taken aback by that. But looking at the world around us, I can understand why they felt that way. Millions of people celebrate Christmas. And many of those people might even call themselves atheists. They celebrate because it’s fun and festive, even if they don’t believe in the true reason for the season. And all decorations and activities might overshadow the birth of our Savior.

I love this time of year and everything that comes with it – the lights, music, food, and so much more. These things bring joy to the season and the celebrations. Somehow in the month of December life feels a little lighter.

On the other hand, though, the busyness of this season can also bring stress. We have to find the perfect gifts for our loved ones. We might have extra responsibilities with parties or church events. We have menus to put together. And as we rush through the season, I wonder if we sometimes overlook Jesus because we are too busy indulging, or in too much of a hurry with our preparations.

As Christmas approaches I want to put the brakes on and savor our Savior. I want to soak up time with Him and reflect on the hope that Christmas brings. I want to hold onto the truth that God came to this earth to be with us. And I want to remember that He is always with us.

It says in Matthew 1:23 KJV, “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.” 

Jesus is Emmanuel – God With Us. Don’t you just love that?

Every day of the year, God is with us. In our daily lives we might not always feel the importance of that truth. We are often juggling many things, and getting through each day can sometimes feel like a battle.

Some days we might feel lonely, or like we are facing life all on our own. But we are never alone. God is with us. What a gift that is!

And since God is omnipresent, He is also with our loved ones. Personally, this brings great comfort to know God is with my family and friends. Especially when they are struggling with health issues or battles of their own. We often feel helpless when we have loved ones going through difficulties. But the same God that is beside you, is also beside them. We can pray for them with confidence, knowing that God’s love is everywhere.

As we move through the weeks ahead, I pray we can keep our eyes open for Jesus and His goodness. When we admire Christmas lights, may we remember the He is the light of the world. When we enjoy the delectable foods, may we keep in mind that Jesus is the bread of life. When we listen to Christmas music, let us sing praises in our hearts to the King of the world.

As we shop for gifts, wrap gifts, and open gifts, may we not lose sight of the greatest gift of all – Jesus.

Will you join me in praying this prayer?

Dear Jesus, we are so thankful for You. It’s incredible to think that You came to this earth as a tiny baby so You could ultimately save us from our sins. You are the greatest gift. We are so thankful that You are with us each and every day. And we are so grateful that You are with our loved ones as well. You are always working in all of our lives. This Christmas season please help us to keep our focus on You. Each day over the coming weeks please help us to hold onto You and hold onto the hope, peace, joy, and love You bring to us. When we remember how much You mean to us and how much You love us – this impact changes everything else. Thank You for Your continual presence in our lives. It is in Your holy name we pray. Amen.

If you’re interested in joining us on our ADVENT2025 quest, please feel free to do so. The idea is simply to magnify and glorify Christ as we point people to Him. We’d love to have you share your Advent thoughts and experiences with us. Please be sure to tag your posts with ADVENT2025. There is plenty of room at the table.

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Until my next post…

Be salty, stay lit.

Rainer Bantau —The Devotional Guy™

You can now find my articles in The Christian Grandfather Magazine.

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