Jesus Is Emmanuel — And We Are Called to Be His Presence

As we continue through this holy season, we pause to remember the beautiful truth at the heart of our faith: Jesus is Emmanuel—God with us. He is not distant, not watching from a distance. He enters our world, our families, our struggles, and our joys. In the child of Bethlehem and in the Christ who walks with us today, God chooses to be close.

Emmanuel reminds us that God is with us in our waiting, offering hope, God is with us in our challenges, giving strength, God is with us in our community, uniting us in love, God is with us in every moment, guiding us on the path of peace.

But the mystery of Emmanuel does not end in Bethlehem. Jesus invites us to make His presence real in our world today. Every time we show kindness, every time we forgive, every time we listen, every time we pray for one another—we become signs of Emmanuel. We remind the world that God is still here, still loving, still healing.

During this Advent, let us ask ourselves: How can I make Christ’s presence felt in my home today? How can I bring peace where there is tension? How can I offer compassion to someone who is hurting? How can our Mission parish community reflect that “God is with us”?

May our words, our actions, and our service help others experience the warmth of God’s nearness. Let us remind each other: Be Emmanuel. Be God’s presence—here, now, and always.

In Christ,
Fr. Lijoy Jose, OFM Cap.
Pastor