Unexpected

Sometimes it’s the unexpected that helps one take notice in a different way, heightens a response, or causes changes to be made.  Our niece lives in Hawaii on the island of Oahu.  In December, the government began testing out an emergency system with sirens and texts.  Last Saturday an emergency alert text was sent that said, “BALLISTIC MISSILE THREAT INBOUND TO HAWAII.  SEEK IMMEDIATE SHELTER.  THIS IS NOT A DRILL.”  It was a long 38 minutes before the Emergency Management Agency reported that it was a false alarm message.  Because of the unexpected, the officials are now in the process of investigating and making sure there are safeguards in place to keep the false alert from happening again.  People have also been given a second chance to decide what they need to still do or change in case of a real threat.

Recently, Fredrick White, 19 years old, went to Goodwill and bought $65.oo worth of coats.  Jim Glasgow was behind him in line and was amazed that the teenager was purchasing so many coats.  Fredrick explained that he was buying them to give to the homeless in his community.  Mr. Glasgow was so impressed that he took a picture and sent it to his daughter, Hayley, who posted it.  When the local news station interviewed Fredrick he told them that he had been “inspired by a story he’d read online of people hanging jackets on poles and fences for the homeless.”  He took the story to heart and did what he could do to also help make a difference.

In what is being called the “Play of the season.” The Minnesota Vikings defeated the New Orleans Saints which earned them a spot in the NFC Championship Game.  The Vikings were one point behind, with 10 seconds left, and 61 yards to go when former University of Houston quarterback Case Keenum threw a long pass to Stefon Diggs which was caught and run in for a touchdown, earning the Minnesota Vikings the win.  In the after game interview, Keenum was asked what that moment meant to him.  He said, “It was the third best moment of my life.  The first was when I gave my life to Jesus Christ and the second was when I married my wife.”  Even with 10 seconds left in a game, with a long distance to go, expect the unexpected.

Last Friday, Larry and I ran some errands and then ate out before going to a meeting at church.  As we were being seated, Larry noticed a couple from church and went and spoke to them.  After eating, our waiter informed us that our friends had paid for our meal!  They had not finished their meal so we were able to thank them before leaving.  On the way to the car, our waiter and two other waiters followed us out the door to let us know the rest of the story.  When our waiter told his boss what the couple had done, he let them know he was going to pay for our friends’ meal.  They were all so excited about it, as were we.  Sometimes the unexpected encourages others to respond, too.

This week we experienced unexpected extended freezing temperatures for this part of Texas. Although there were some inconveniences, it was like bonus days getting to stay at home.  We made the best of it by getting some projects done, preparing for upcoming events, and relaxing.  Several of our friends, whose homes flooded, have used these days unpacking, painting, and checking projects off of lists.  What sweet blessings to have unexpected gifts of time.

We have no control over unexpected happenings in life, but we do have a choice about whom we rely on, how we react, respond, and learn from the situations.  How important to remember that no matter whether events are expected or unexpected, Jesus has promised to be with us at all times.  

In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Matthew 5:16

“And surely I (Jesus) am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Matthew 28:20b

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21 

Do not be anxious about anything but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 

Philippians 4:6-7 

God is our refuge and strength,

     an ever-present help in trouble. 

Psalm 46:1 

My help comes from the LORD,

     the Maker of heaven and earth. 

Psalm 121:2