By Kathy Beach

“This is a phrase that a friend shared with me recently, and it has stuck with me. When I think about the details that led up to the first Christmas, there were many unexpected events. There was the unexpected visit from the angel followed by an unexpected pregnancy which could bring shame and harm. A difficult trip to Bethlehem was unexpected. The delivery room in a stable was unexpected and less than desirable. The shepherds were not expecting the glorious angelic announcement that night. A visit from three kings was the last thing that Mary and Joseph expected. That the promised Messiah would come as a poor carpenter was very unexpected by the Jews. The signs and wonders that Jesus did were unexpected by scores of people. The disciples were not expecting Him to be arrested and crucified, but it was God’s perfect plan. The resurrection of Jesus was completely unexpected even though He told them it would happen. These unexpected events were complicated, terrifying, comforting, and glorious and yet we celebrate each one. The outcome was the gift of eternal life.

“We’ve all had unexpected twists and turns in our lives this past year. Some were complicated and terrifying, while others were comforting and glorious. We can rest in knowing that God is with us in the unexpected. In fact, He often does His best work through the unexpected.

“May your Christmas celebration be filled with unexpected joys and blessings.”