Surprises

Certain things shouldn’t be surprises.  I should not be, on the whole, surprised by the fact that Cherry loves me but often I am.  I should not be surprised when I come home to a great meal, yet feelings of appreciation, anticipation, and amazement often accompany my steps into the house.  I shouldn’t be surprised when I find God in action but this is often the biggest surprise of all!  Even when everything is prepared, the anticipation of a moment growing for days, I still find myself coming with a sense of pending wonder.
 
I think I often miss something important by being surprised; the joy, honor, and affirmation which springs out of celebration.  I shouldn’t be surprised, I could have anticipated, planned, and now celebrate!  Everything should be ready for the event.  Nothing should have been left undone just because of a little doubt.  As hard as it seems, celebration is as important as preparation, work, and taking the steps along the way.  Unless one celebrates one doesn’t often remember.  It is as if the purpose for living, the reason and rationale behind our values and priorities, is forgotten in the struggle of taking the daily steps.
 
Political parties are good at celebration.  Sports teams of both sides of the context have the celebration ready when there is even a slight chance they could win.  Everyone is anticipating the big moment.  Investments in time and materials are taken for granted, even if the chance of winning is slight, because the celebration process and experience is critical.  The importance of the moment isn’t just for the here and now, it marks a moment in history those involved and those who follow will remember, treasure, and will receive hope for years to come. 
 
John records a simple moment “when Jesus finally got there, he found Lazarus already four days dead.”  (John 11.17)  Jesus knew.  Jesus was ready.  Jesus celebrated!
 
Today is an opportunity to recognized the steps of yesterday and celebrate the moments which will come.  I am not just going to be surprised, I will celebrate!