Yeah, slightly irreligious, and we’ve all heard stories of Alexa’s mishaps. But a profound truth exists here. Jesus shows up unexpectedly, without needing Alexa. The King of Kings didn’t show up in a palace, but unexpectedly in a stable. The Lord of Lords didn’t show up at the head of a conquering army, but as a helpless infant. Most of us have experienced that, where Jesus unexpectedly steps in and changes the course of our lives. Changes we couldn’t have orchestrated, but he could, and did.
Here’s one. I had decided to leave my home in CA, and had a job opportunity in CO. On the way I stopped off to visit Taos, where I’d led several mission trips and fell in love with the ethos of the place. But jobs there were scarce. Then Jesus showed up in one day, manipulating at least nine separate events to get me an unsolicited job living at an unused guest ranch in the mountains just east of town. Almost heaven for me. That led to the First Baptist Church of Taos loving me back into the ministry. A God touch. Life changing.
So, questions for today. Can we do something to increase these divine appointments? If so, how? Let me suggest three steps.
First, every day, intentionally give him permission to be your Lord. Your boss. Be willing to give up what you cherish if he has something better. Each morning, as I fill my coffee cup and head to the study to read the digital news, I say, “Good morning Lord. Use me today. Let me honor you.” Frankly, most days I see no direct results, that I’m aware of. But maybe the smile and “Be safe” to the checker at Hank’s Hardware could qualify.
Second, look for God in the small aspects of life. Really, that’s what “Unconventional” strives to do—to not despise the small things, but see their spiritual significance. I suspect God will surprise you as you build an awareness of how he works in the “small” stuff.
Third, join Jesus’ mission. Jesus came to create an army that would shatter the gates of hell. So, sign up. Let his mission be yours, trumping your plans. I like the old line, “Jesus doesn’t call the qualified, he qualifies the called.”
Now, an announcement. For this Christmas, like the last, let’s turn “Unconventional” into a three-part preparation for Christmas. Advent, if you wish. On the night before Jesus’ crucifixion, he said he needed to leave so the Holy Spirit could come, and empower us in our spiritual life. The Spirit will change our lives to qualify us, so we’ll briefly explore three of the dimensions of his fruit, to get us ready for Christmas day. Maybe we’ll do the others next year!
So, enjoy this Christmas. Think of some times Jesus has unexpectedly shown up in your life. Read the next three, on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and be ready for Friday.