Mary was the first to experience the blessing of having the Son of God alive within her. I imagine her amazement and the great privilege she felt at being chosen for such an important part! “Mary’s Songâ€� in Luke 1:46-55 expresses her gratitude and humility at being chosen by God. In verses 46-49 she says, “My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me â€" holy is his name.â€� While Mary was the first to know what it was like to have the Son of God within her, she wasn’t the last. Because of Christmas, every believer has the opportunity to experience Jesus dwelling within them!

“O Come, O Come Emmanuel� was originally written in Latin and was translated into English in 1861 by John Mason Neale. It is a song that describes the hope that Christians have because of Christmas. “Emmanuel� is the reason for the season! The first verse of this song reminds us of the many years the people of Israel were held in captivity, but the words of this song tell them to rejoice because their promised Messiah would come. God was with them.

When Jesus was born in Bethlehem, Emmanuel came. Jesus is still Emmanuel, God with us, today! Like Mary, let our soul glorify the Lord and rejoice in our Savior. Let us thank God for his indescribable gift… His Son. Merry Christmas Friends!

Suggested prayer: Lord, You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. Your faithfulness never fails. You are always with me. I praise Your holy name and rejoice today because Emmanuel has come. Thank you for your indescribable gift! In Jesus’ name, Amen.

1. Matthew 1:23 (KJV).

Today’s Encounter was written by: Crystal B.