Thursday, Dec 2, 2021
Christmas Surprises!
Who doesn’t like surprises? Lots of people. Those of us who are wound up tighter than a golf ball do not like surprises. Whether it be good or bad, joyful or spooky, surprising us will almost always result in a screeching yelp of some kind. We are the ones that do not react well to rubber snakes in our desk drawers or friends who jump out from a dark place. Remember, if you are considering something like this for a Christmas prank, you have been duly warned.
It’s kinda funny when I think about it: Christmas is supposed to bring welcome surprises, yet some folks are terrified by Santa at the department store and horrified at the thought of a strange fat man entering our homes. (I’m not worried about Santa’s home invasion at my place. In addition to the host of security cameras and alarms, my ferocious canine will certainly take care of him. Santa ain’t gonna’ spook me!)
One of the surprises that I often seek this time of year is the appearance of God. I’m constantly amazed at God’s ability to show up in some of the most peculiar places. Oh, I’m not talking about an angel with wings and a halo, like the ones who appeared to some of our favorite Bible characters. Rather, I’m referring to God’s unusual ability to appear in some things that appear to be nothing but trouble. I’m also referring to God’s habit of revealing Himself when I least expect it, like the voice of a friend offering advice or the tears of a child who sees Santa for the first time.
Where will we see God this Christmas Season? Will we be surprised by something big and loud or will we need to listen and look closely for something small and quiet? God works in all kinds of ways, so when you are surprised by God’s work this Holiday Season, don’t tell me that I didn’t warn you!
Get ready! Here comes Christmas! Don’t freak out!
“Then the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Behold, I am about to do a thing in Israel at which the two ears of everyone who hears it will tingle.’ ” (1 Samuel 3:11, ESV)