In the chaos of war, theologian Dietrich Ritschl lay injured, surrounded by flames and destruction. Through the wreckage, his eyes caught an inscription on a beam:
“Beyond the stars, there must live a gracious Father.”
At first, these words reminded him of a God far above it all. But his heart ached for more—a God who wasn’t just beyond the stars, but here, near, sharing the pain.
This longing finds its answer in Emmanuel: God With Us.
From the Garden of Eden to the Tabernacle, and ultimately in Jesus, God’s desire has always been to dwell with His people. “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” (John 1:14) He walked our roads, touched our wounds, and calmed our storms.
In your valleys, wilderness, or storms, know this: God is with you. He whispers His love in your loneliness, His strength in your weakness, and His peace in your chaos.
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.” (Psalm 34:18)
God’s presence isn’t just for now—it’s forever. “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
Emmanuel means you are never alone. Wherever you are, whatever you face, God is with you.
