I have a three part name; legally, I am, “Richard Mark Shaw.”  I have a few other names too; that is, there are other titles that are used for me depending on the relationship and the context.  I am also “Son, Brother, Papa, Uncle, Honey, Dad, Pastor etc.  A simple and common illustration like that helps us understand why God has a lot of names.  Because of His infinite character and all He is and does, it would be impossible to describe Him in three letters.  He is Creator, Sustainer, the Almighty and the I AM.  He is Father, Shepherd, Door, Water, Savior, King and Provider.  His name (reputation) is above all names (reputations).  He is perfect in all of His ways.  He was, and is, and is to come.  And, this time of the year we like to remember one of our favorite names, “Emmanuel,” which means, “God with us.”  Here’s a news flash.  He was with us before Jesus came.  That may seem a little weird at first but if we read the OT, it is very clear that God was willing to interact with whoever would seek Him.  So what’s the point of mentioning Emmanuel when we celebrate the Incarnation?  As I hope to point out on Sunday, the reference to Emmanuel was designed to call some history to mind.  How do people live in God’s presence?  What would it look like to live in God’s presence?  What is the track record of the human race actually recognizing and living in God’s presence?  There is great comfort in knowing God is with us but if we’re honest, there are also some challenges.  Let’s take some time this season to think about what it means, “God with us.”