Unexpected
Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen. Ephesians 3:20 (ESV)
During this Advent Season, what would you consider to be unexpected? How about winning the million-dollar lottery? Maybe hearing from an estranged family member, having a healing without surgery, having the vet tell you your cat’s heart murmur isn’t that serious, or perhaps it’s just a few moments of peace and quiet.
It’s snowing hard here in Arnot, PA and as I write this, the little Leucistic junco is going after seeds with a passion. First, I didn’t expect to see one and then the fact that it is a junco with genetic issues that leave it mostly white (like a piebald deer) is amazing. Unexpected? Yes, and beautiful!
This started me thinking about the unexpected circumstances surrounding the birth of baby Jesus. The King of kings was not expected to arrive as a little baby—even though the Prophet Isaiah had foretold this. They just couldn’t believe that an infant could be their Savior. No way! They didn’t expect it to happen that way.
Some immediately believed! But have you ever wondered what happened to the shepherds after that night of seeing the King? For thirty years, there was little or no account of His childhood, teen years or even into His twenties. Did the shepherds forget what they heard and saw that night? Did their faith grow or did they leave it behind? For many years, the shepherds had to simply hold on to a memory of Bethlehem.
At first, they probably told anyone who would listen about what had happened during their unexpected activities of that night. But how long did they keep it up? Did they tone it down as the years went by?
How loudly do we proclaim all the unexpected blessings that have been showered upon us? Do we shout it from the rooftops or hide it under a basket? Sometimes our faith is strong and then there are moments of unbalance and instability but we are sustained by His love.
During these weeks, may you expect the unexpected and feel deep gratitude in your hearts.
Let this song be our prayer today.
Photo: Michael Johnston 12/10/2025