Life is Full of Surprises

Easter 2017

It was late, and I found myself tossing and turning on the couch the night before Easter. All the other family members were tucked in bed, but my mind wasn’t allowing me the rest I desperately needed. The light from the tv complimented the moonlight coming in the window, but otherwise, it was dark. The sound from the tv show helped drown out my mind’s relentless noise to try and solve life’s problems. 

Two children were upstairs in their beds, my husband was fast asleep in our bedroom, and I lay there not excited about Easter, the day when Christ followers should be ready and eager to celebrate new life. 

My oldest two sons had already moved out of the house. James was stationed in Guam at the time and Daniel was living in the Atlanta area going to college. Holidays were not the same since some of the children were living as adults elsewhere.

I heard some rumbling at the back door, and Daniel quickly said, “Mom, it’s just me.” I wasn’t expecting him home, so this was a great surprise! He told me he brought someone with him, which was not uncommon. All my children knew others are always welcome any time. Extra pillows and new toothbrushes are always on hand for those who may unexpectedly spend the night.  

As I reached out my hand in the dark to shake this friend’s hand, my eyes finally focused on the scruffy face, and I realized it was my oldest son! I let out a loud squeal that raised the other family members from their slumber, and they came running to make sure I was okay. 

The entire family stayed up late that night catching up, and we had the best Easter the next day! 

Life throws us surprises: some good, some bad. Even the disciples of Jesus had surprises of their own throughout the first Holy Week. 

They witnessed Jesus’ triumphant entrance into Jerusalem on a donkey.

They saw Jesus visit the temple and overturn the tables. 

They noticed in disgust as a woman anointed Jesus with costly perfume. 

They reluctantly allowed Jesus to wash their feet after celebrating Passover. 

One of their own, Judas, betrayed Jesus with a kiss. 

And then Peter, who loved Jesus greatly, denied even knowing Christ. 

As they hid, soldiers nailed Jesus to a cross. This man, who so many left everything to follow, was now dead. They believed He was supposed to take the Earthly throne and rule over their kingdom. 

But then - surprise! Jesus rose from the dead and walked among His disciples. 

I doubt anything that week went as the disciples had anticipated. It was full of surprises for them, but not for Jesus. Even though Jesus told them of His plans throughout their three years together, they were surprised by what was taking place in their lives. 

Our lives also have some surprises - many times devastating things in our lives - and we wonder what God is doing. How could He possibly have allowed this to happen?  

Like the disciples, we may not understand why life has its ups and downs. We may even hide when something catastrophic happens. But God has always made something beautiful from the good and the bad. He continues to make beauty from the ashes in my life, and I know He can do the same for you. 

Jesus’ resurrection was the greatest surprise of all, but it came after a horrific crucifixion. Stand firm on God’s truths through the trials in your life and the confusion of your struggles. Wait patiently for a wonderful miracle and surprise. 

And when your eyes can focus and see the reality of what God is doing, squeal with delight and celebrate His faithfulness.