We read in Matthew 1:23 the prophecy from Isaiah, “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.”

Down through the years, many have desired to be assured of God’s presence with them as they endure life’s challenges. One such person was Dietrich Ritschl, a man who lived in Germany during World War 2. One day in 1944, his city was bombed and many were killed. After the bombing subsided, Ritschl was lying on a bench in a makeshift hospital, looking up through the partially destroyed roof as fires burned all over the city. From that position, he caught a glimpse of an inscription that was carved into a part of the ceiling that was still intact. It read: “Beyond the stars, there must live a gracious Father.” Contemplating the message, Dietrich thought to himself, I don't want a God who is only beyond the stars. I need a God who is here right now. I need a God who is present, a God who is available, a God who knows and understands my situation.

Ritschl’s desire is how many still feel today. As the world around us seems to be upside down in many ways, people long for the presence of God to be near. To all who feel that way, there is good news this Christmas season! God is not just out beyond the starry skies. The prophecy from Isaiah says that one of Jesus’ names is “Emmanuel,” which means “God with us.” We need not go through any challenge alone, because God desires to be with us.

This Christmas season and into the new year, may you feel the presence of God in a powerful way. May you have the assurance that no matter what you go through, Jesus—the reason for the Christmas season—will be with you and will give you victory.

Tolu and I wish you a Merry Christmas and pray that in 2025, God will bless you and your family exceedingly abundantly above all that we can ask or think, in Jesus' Name. Remember, God with us!

In Christ,

Sola Adesope
‍Superintendent General‍