God is faithful to his promises, but God frequently surprises us. The Old Testament is filled with prophecy regarding a coming Messiah. Yet, everyone was surprised when the Messiah appeared as baby in a manger born to an unwed teenage mother.
People were surprised by Jesus’ choice of friends and dinner guests.
People were surprised by Jesus’ disregard of opinions and expectations.
People were surprised by Jesus’ words of “love your enemies” and “blessed are the poor.”
The Old Testament is also filled with prophecy regarding the Messiah’s ability to save. Yet, everyone was surprised by how Jesus did it.
Jesus did not save from us political opposition, militaristic oppression, or the pain and suffering of everyday life. He did not save by way of rebellion, political protest or taking up arms. Rather, Jesus saved us from sin by giving up his life. He died that we might live.
God is faithful to his promises, but God frequently surprises us.
I’m leery of prediction, prognostication, and those who claim to hold all the answers. I lean away from speculation and toward humility. As Jesus taught us to pray, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
Seek God and be surprised.
Jeff Gravens 