We often think of unexpected surprises as things that aren’t very pleasant. At least, if you’re a control freak like me. Most of the time, I to try to exercise control over my schedule at the outcomes of my activities as much as possible. And we are taught, by the world, that this is the very definition of productivity. Now, I’m certainly not saying the productivity is bad. However, I am coming more and more to the conclusion that God’s sovereignty, and therefore his plans, are more important than our productivity.
Some months ago, at my doctor’s recommendation, I sent a DNA sample (a tube full of saliva) into the DNA registry in order to try to find out if I had genetic markers for cancer or heart disease. Since I was adopted at birth (by some very wonderful parents) I’ve never known much about my genes or my genetic ancestry. It seemed like a fantastic idea! Fast forward 6 months, and I am contacted by a person who believes, based on our common genetic sequences, that they are a first or second cousin, and that they would like me to help fill out the family tree going backwards. I am very intrigued, because I’ve never known any of my blood relatives! I explain to her that I don’t have much to add to the family tree, since I was adopted and don’t know anything about my biological parents. However, based on common genes, my birthday and location…within 48 hours, she had done enough checking and made enough calls to introduce my (via e-mail) to my biological mom. Wow.
I have since spoken with this lady, and we had a wonderful conversation about circumstances, history, and quirky family attributes. Because I was open to the idea, I was able to enjoy and learn about some new genetic relatives that I may have the opportunity to know better over the next months and years. How often does God knock on our door (metaphorically speaking) and say, “Hey, I have this thing that I want you to do!” And we just don’t feel like we have time to pursue it or engage with it, because it would interfere with OUR plans. What if, just maybe, God wanted us to do this “particular thing” because He has some unexpected blessing for us, but we never receive that blessing because we were just too busy…to be obedient.
“My thoughts are nothing like your thoughts,” says the LORD. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine.” Is. 55:8.