The Unexpected...

I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; 
          I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. 
I will be glad and exult in you; 
          I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.
~ Psalm 9:1 - 2

The change of seasons seem to blend together here along the Gulf.  While the leaves are still turning and falling at the end of the year, the new year has brought another round of snow. 

You might say that the snow has been unexpected.  I have lived along the Gulf now for nearly two decades, and it has only snowed four times now in all those years.  

Not only the weather, but life, can sometimes catch us by surprise as well.

Years ago I remember receiving word that a friend of mine had been killed in a serious auto accident.  I couldn't seem to find even the words to ask what had happened because I was simply in shock.  It was nearly an hour before I could even think of what to say. 

On the other end of the spectrum, I remember another time when I had been selected for a project at work that I really didn't expect to be given because I didn't feel like I had as much experience as the others who were also applying to lead the project.  When it was announced, I was simply in shock for about a day.

Unexpected encounters can cause us both pain and joy.  Sometimes I think that is how daily life must have been like for Christ.  The lives that were being lived, only to unexpectedly change when encountering Christ.

Unexpected encounters with Christ hold a deeper meaning when we allow ourselves to embrace the moment.  Each day there are a number of moments or encounters just waiting.  New encounters that will open new places in our hearts, where we will be able to welcome and celebrate more fully our shared humanity and support for one another.

The saying, "Expect the unexpected," works well when it comes to our encounters with Christ, and how each encounter is an opportunity.

Stay in God's grip!

G. Todd Williams (c) 2018