The unexpected Jesus

Then Job replied to the Lord, "I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. You asked, 'Who is this that obscures my counsel without knowledge?' Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.' "
~ Job 42:1 - 3

This morning while out with our dogs I was drawn to the fresh growth on one of our trees.  As the tree rests during the winter, already moss has turned bright green with the rain yesterday and warmer temperatures.  As I followed the growth of one of the branches, I noticed droplets of water, gathered along the underside of the branch, reflecting both the sky above and the ground below.  It was unexpected.  

I am reminded that the appearance of Jesus to humble parents and the unplanned place for delivery and the beginning of life, just seems to remind me of how God works.  While there was no magnificent light drawing me to search the branch, I still seemed to be invited to look.  I wasn't sure what I was looking for, but yet, I was drawn in.

The unexpected find reminds me that as one who seeks to discover Jesus, I am constantly being invited to look.

The drop of water causes me to remember unexpected events in my life are not necessarily interruptions in my life, but invitations that cause me to recognize and believe.  It is encounters like these that constantly bring conversion from one way of life into another.  The greatest temptation in life is not necessarily the turning away from God, but never to even try to even look for God.

This morning's droplet reminds me of just how paralyzed many of us are in our life.  Never able to leave the pathway our own needs have dictated, to follow the way of Jesus who invites us to "follow me."

​The appearance of the unexpected Jesus is no longer about expectation.  It is now about seeking after the One who has come.  Our expectation is now about vocation, a deeper understanding, and the invitation to the birthplace of joy!

Stay in God's grip!

G. Todd Williams (c) 2020