Merry Christmas!

At Medical Teams, we’ve been reflecting on “Emmanuel” during Advent this year. It’s the perfect encapsulation of the meaning of this season. Matthew tells us in 1:22-23 that the birth of Jesus by the Virgin Mary is to, “fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: ‘Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel’ (which means, God with us).”

As we’ve reflected this season, we keep returning to the meaning of Emmanuel as “God with us.” One of our core values at Medical Teams is “not alone.” To us, it means two things. First, that we always can rely on each other as a team and and on our compassionate community. And second, that God always walks with us. This Christmas, we’re struck by Emmanuel anew – not just that God is near and we are “not alone,” but also by the story of Jesus’s birth.

Volunteers Yulieth and Reynaldo pause during their house visits in Colombia to take in the view. Photo by Lina Hernandez.

It’s good to be reminded that the peace around the birth of Jesus was short-lived. Joseph and Mary were forced to flee Egypt to escape Jesus being killed by Herod. Their story mirrors the modern-day stories of so many of the people we serve. Through our medical services and health programs around the world, we’re sharing the love God has for all of us. It’s the same divine love that gave us the hope of Jesus and reminds us, thousands of years later, that we are not alone.

During this season, and in the face of the enormous needs of our broken world, may Emmanuel be near to each of you. We are so grateful for every one of you – our incredible community – and hope that you feel Emmanuel close by, this season and always.

Have a blessed Christmas!

Medical Teams International