December 23rd - O Emmanuel

Today's O Antiphon reminds us that God is with us always. The name Emmanuel means God-with-us. As we draw ever closer to the celebration of Jesus' birth, we are assured of God's presence in our lives and our world. Read the words of the prophet Isaiah (7:13-14):

                   Then Isaiah said:
                   "Listen, every one of you in the royal family of David.
                   The Lord will give you proof. A virgin is pregnant;
                   she will have a son and will name him Emmanuel."

O come, O Come, Emmanuel

And ransom captive Israel,

That mourns in lonely exile here

Until the Son of God appear.

Rejoice! Rejoice!

Emmanuel shall come to you, O Israel.