“Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel” (which means, God with us).

More than once I’ve received confused looks when my kids start telling stories about Dad’s work friends. Names like Mr. Flash, Mr. Blaster, Ms. Rocky, Mr. Dingo, and Mr. Punk always raise an eyebrow. As you might have guessed, these aren’t my husband’s coworkers’ actual names; these are callsigns. Callsigns are an integral part of fighter pilot culture, and each name tells a story. Callsigns aren’t just chosen to sound cool, they reveal something about a person’s identity: who they are and what they’ve done.

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Jesus goes by many names in the Bible, a few being Lamb of God, Alpha and Omega, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Prince of Peace, Bread of Life, Good Shepherd, Redeemer, and Living Stone. Each of these names tells us something about who Jesus is and what he’s done. It’s so fitting to spend Christmas day meditating on the name Immanuel as we celebrate the day God came to be with us in a totally new, unexpected, and universe-altering way.

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As we’ve studied joy these past several weeks, we’ve discovered a connection between God’s presence and joy. It makes me think of the Garden of Eden and God’s original intentions for humanity. In the garden, Adam and Eve walked with God; there was no barrier between them. Of all the wonderful things about the garden, this was the best. When Adam and Eve had to leave the garden, God already had a plan to restore his creation. The most pivotal part of this plan? Immanuel, God with us once more. While still living in this broken world, we are able to relish in the greatest part of Eden’s paradise because we have unimpeded access to God’s presence through Jesus.

When fighter pilots get together to name young squadron members, several more seasoned pilots come prepared with stories to tell about those in the hot seat. For months leading up to the event, the pilots record memorable interactions they have with the namees. They spend time reflecting on these anecdotes, often putting them into written words as they prepare to present to the group. And, once named, pilots will spend the rest of their careers retelling these stories.

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Throughout the Bible, we find stories of God with us. The Old Testament is one account after another of amazing events that took place because God was with his people. But these miraculous and life-changing encounters with the living God aren’t confined to history. They aren’t for a chosen few. Jesus’ birth signaled “good news of great joy that will be for all the people” (Luke 2:10, emphasis mine).

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So, what is your personal experience with Immanuel? How has God’s presence brought you joy? Do you reflect on these stories from your own life? Do you share them with others? Our stories of Immanuel show the world that Jesus is not some far-off, obsolete deity. He is worthy of his name. Like the perfect callsign, it describes him so well. He is the God of the universe who has chosen to be here with us, that our joy may be full.

Jesus! God here with me. December can be disorienting, with a new year of new challenges and to-dos just around the corner. But I will walk with confidence and joy knowing you are with me. Before charging ahead onto the next task, help me to pause. Remind my heart, Holy Spirit, of how I’ve seen you move. Who in my life needs to hear my personal story of Immanuel this week? I surrender this day to you, Lord. In your mighty name, amen.