“Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” Isaiah 7:14

What’s your name? When your loved ones hear your name, they picture you — your face, your voice, even your personality. With your name comes the image of you!

Through the prophet Isaiah, God gave Jesus the name Immanuel, which means “God with us.” When we hear this name, we think of God’s Son being born among people, becoming a true human being yet remaining fully God. The name Immanuel reminds us that God was present in the manger on that first Christmas night, and He is also present in our lives today.

Immanuel! Picture Him lying in a manger. Hear His voice preaching to the crowds, comforting the sick, and inviting us to come to Him so He may give us rest. See Him as a Man, dying on the cross, and imagine His stunning presence on that first Easter morning. Listen to His name — Immanuel — and know that God is with us always.

Joplin, Mo. mission – Heavenly Father, thank you for the believers in and around Joplin, Missouri, who have the deep desire to spread your gospel in that town. The core group from nearby churches has dedicated their services, resources, and prayers to this important effort. Help the leaders and members to remain focused and energized despite any obstacles that may arise. Bless their evangelism efforts as they create and build relationships through worship services, events, programs, and personal contacts. Your Word does not return to you empty. We trust this promise as we keep your people in Joplin, Missouri, in our prayers through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

• Lord, as Wallace & Violet Braun, Becky Sanders parents and confirmand Kaitlyn’s grandparents celebrate their 57th Wedding Anniversary TODAY, we join them in offering you our praise and thanks. What a privilege that they have shared so much life together for so many years. What a testimony to your rich blessings and love. Continue to surround them with your care as they live in your grace.
• Be with Tadd & Tina Hilgendorf’s extended family as his uncle was called out of this life into eternity. Remind them that what awaits us in your presence is far beyond what we can know or imagine and comfort all who grieve with faith and confidence based upon your biblical promises.
• Jim & Sandy Hahn have asked for prayers for Jim’s family as his mother has received the goal of her faith, the salvation of her soul. She was a blessing to her three children and her family for 92 years.  Her husband, her two sons, and the rest of her family look forward to a joyful reunion in Heaven ahead in the future.
• From Rosalee Harney, a friend’s husband has also died at a young age. Guide Wanda Dorn and her 11 year-old son David as they react to the loss of their loved one, and fill their hearts with hope as they remember how you destroyed death for all who believe in you as their Savior and your resurrection to life.
• We pray for Ray Fuerstenberg, who is back in the hospital. Grant clarity to the medical team as Ray undergoes further testing; and according to Your will, we ask that he may return home soon to recuperate and gain strength. Lord, surround Carol Berg with a special measure of your care and love as she struggles with health issues. Allow her to heal and gain strength as you keep her strong in her faith. We join Tim & Shirley Crosslen in prayer and concern for Tim, who has begun treatment for cancer again. Bless them as they pray and trust you.
• Lord Jesus, on behalf of Annette Diener’s 10 year-old great-nephew, John Diener, we pray for continued blessings as the tests have revealed that his tumor is benign. While he is not yet out of danger, we pray for success in all aspects of the treatment that he might experience the power and security of your love.
• Continue to surround Lance Backhaus, Jeremiah’s father, with your care. And help Sue Reel to rely upon you for direction and peace in her life, even as you keep her strong in her faith and trust in You.