Who Woulda Thought?

Cousins that love each other so much, it seemed a shame that they would be separated by such a distance -- Seattle to Dallas. And who would have EVER suspected that my Seattle-loving, Seahawks-loving son and family would move to Austin, TX, and even more so, that those city-slicker kids would EVER have goats, a horse and donkey? And who would have EVER thought that our quiet and subdued Lexi would EVER be so poised and eloquent at the front of a room being judged for a speech? But, God seems to always have something up His sovereign sleeves that surprise and amaze us.....almost reguarly.

But, here we all are....this week in Austin for Payton & Alexia's Regional Finals Speech & Debate Tournament & Competition, staying at "Farmer" Ryan's (his new title bestowed upon him by a cute little 3-year old neighbor girl) and Queen Shawntel's beautiful home. The cousins have reunited in a big way -- playing with the goats, horse and donkey, fishing in the fish-laden creek below their home and land, and swimming in the pool and hot tub. And here I am being thrilled at this adventure of "Life in God's Surprise Lane"!

The apostle Paul said that when we pray, God does that which goes beyond what we ask for or even think about. "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him" (1 Corinthians 2:9). God has a plan for every single one of us. When we see what He has in mind, it will surpass anything we thought possible. He wants to give us the desires of our hearts beyond anything we thought possible. I know He's giving me so many desires of my heart these days -- so, of all the things I may have messed up along the way, I must have done something right.

The next time God surprises you, don’t doubt his love, goodness, and faithfulness. Lift your hands to the heavens and celebrate. You are being lavished upon. You are being loved. You are being delivered. You are being transformed. And be thankful that since nothing can separate you from His love, there are more gracious surprises to come!