On Christmas, I expect that most of the presents I receive will be gifts that I have chosen for myself. Amazon wish lists and gift cards make it so easy to give people exactly what they want. This can be really good from a practical perspective, however the process of gifting without that certainty can be great in other ways.
My sister keeps things interesting, often still opting to make the selections herself and avoid the wish lists. Although she consistently makes solid choices, being on the receiving end requires a different approach. I have to prepare differently. I know from experience that it’ll be great, but I have to be ready for a surprise!
There is nothing wrong with being hopeful for things we have specifically requested. That being said, it is often our default. Hope is also found, in abundance, when we don’t know exactly what the package holds. This time of year—Advent—we are also reminded to prepare for surprise, to place Hope in the unexpected.
There is great significance in unwrapping a present when you have no idea what it contains. You know it has been chosen, specifically for you, by someone who, perhaps, knows you really well. It is important to prepare differently in order to receive such a gift.
Our hope in Jesus is also one requiring a different type of preparation. Our hearts and minds need to be ready to receive something special. What awaits is a surprise that will, undoubtedly, be an amazingly perfect “fit” specifically for each person! Each day is full of these surprises and during this season we are reminded to practice our readiness. Everyday is Christmas, are you ready to receive what God has in store for you?
“The people were filled with expectation, and everyone wondered whether John might be the Christ.”
Luke 3:15 CEB
Ramblings of a Faithjunkie 