Not Alone

Bible Reading: Psalm 139:5-7; Matthew 1:23

Through the door, up the stairs, and into a new room again. Ruby had been to so many foster homes, and this one was no different. Why did I have to move on Christmas Day? she thought as she put her bag down on the floor. She’d felt so alone since her mom had died.

Ruby sighed and walked downstairs to look around. She could smell delicious food coming from the kitchen. There was even a tree with a gift underneath it with her name on it. She laughed to herself. How could they possibly know what I want?

Just then her foster parents, Janice and Mike, and their son, Alex, walked out of the kitchen.

“Would you like to open your gift?” Alex asked. “We got it just for you.” He started jumping up and down like a jack rabbit, which made Ruby laugh.

“I think someone’s had too many Christmas cookies,” his mom said.

“Maybe?” Alex said with a huge grin on his face. He picked up the gift and handed it to Ruby. “This is for you.”

Ruby took the gift and opened it. It was a journal with her name engraved on it along with the words, You belong. Ruby wiped back a tear. It was like they knew what she was thinking. On the first page was Psalm 139:5—“You go before me and follow me.”

“I’ve never heard that verse before,” Ruby said. “What does it mean?”

“It’s talking about Jesus always being with those who trust in Him,” Janice said.

Mike nodded. “Ruby, we know life for you has not been easy. We won’t pretend to understand what you’ve been through, but Jesus does. He left His Father in heaven to be born in a stable full of animals—not the best place for a baby. I’m sure you’ve been in some not-so-great places too. Jesus did that because He loves us. One name for Him that we remember at Christmas is Immanuel, which means ‘God is with us.’ I imagine you’ve felt very lonely at times, but you don’t have to go through life alone. Jesus will be with you—and we’re here for you too. I hope you can believe that.”

Ruby closed her journal. “I hope so too.” She smiled at her new foster family. Maybe this place would be different.

-Danielle Woods

How About You?

Do you feel alone? Do you have moments when you think you don’t belong? Maybe someone you were close to is no longer with you. Life can be hard, but Jesus came so you would never be alone. He is Immanuel, and He will be with you everywhere you go. You are not alone—He loves you and will take care of you.

Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 1:23 The virgin. . .will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel, which means “God is with us.” (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus is with you