"Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, a virgin will be with child and bear a son, and she will call His name Immanuel (God with us).” Isaiah 7:14
Artists: Write the name “Immanuel” in big letters in the middle of your page. Then with colors, other words and/or images, fill in around the name to make it come alive to today.
Writers: Take a moment to express in prose or poetry why the name "Immanuel" is important to you … especially as you reflect on this past year.
"With Us", from the Perspectacles collection. Because God weeps with us when we weep. Photographed mixed media sculpture: recycled eyeglass frames, kleenex, ©2012 Wendy Lew Toda
Be Close
Near as a breath
you surround me
gentle
strong
holding shattered lives
unexpected grief
wind sighing a song
I don't want to hear
never thought would be mine
I plug my ears
and run blindly
You are here
in that darkness
my darkness
I can't see
How is it you come to me?
How do you even find me?
I can't find myself.
Yet you do.
You gather me in
quiet compassion
enfolding love
slow grace
You know my need
Cry with me
Be my hope
My Immanuel
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Ruthie, I'll do something with the artist's prompt in a bit. This felt like it needed to be expressed first. Holding you all in much prayer, my friend.
The L goes right off the side of the paper - because God's nearness goes beyond any limit.