When I set out to write a series about Christmas, and it’s cast of characters several weeks ago, I had no idea how my life was getting ready to be impacted and changed. A week ago, we found out my husband will need back surgery due to a herniated disk. Although this surgery is fairly common and absolutely necessary to reduce his pain and regain mobility, it was hard to hear. As we sat there in the doctor’s office listening to him explain in great detail what and where the problem spots were and how long recovery might take, I couldn’t help but feel like I wanted to throw up. A few days after that we were given the price tag for the surgery, which is high. Another day that was really hard and another day I had an overwhelming desire to throw up. None of this was planned, none of it was expected, we don’t have a stockpile of cash sitting in our back account, there is no paid leave from jobs, and no guarantee that this one surgery will correct the issue entirely. There were many tears, door slams and frustrated texts sent to friends. As I sat in my quiet space one morning, I realized that I needed to practice what I preach. You see I had just written a challenge to ponder, store up treasures and meditate on God like Mary had done after the birth of Jesus. These were things I had not been doing, instead I texted friends and busied myself with stuff-it is almost Christmas after all and I have plenty to do. In a weird sort of way, I was trying to avoid God, because I was angry with him. Not only about my husband’s impending surgery, but about how we can’t seem to catch a break financially, about a young friend fighting a loosing battle with cancer, about a friend who is struggling to navigate her parents through some medical issues, about the fear that has gripped our nation, about having to wear a stupid mask every where I go!

I’m not gonna lie, it spiraled down hill pretty quickly once the flood gates opened. But as I was reminded sometimes you have to cry it all out, so you can move on and think more clearly. Not to mention the much-needed rest that came as a result of letting it all out. So, I sat and I pondered and I journaled and I cried some more. As I listened this amazing thing happened – Peace. Peace that came as God recounted the many, many, many times he has provided for our family in ways I never could have imagined. Peace from the growth and closer walk with Jesus that has come as a result of those hard times and me learning to depend on him more and more. Peace that comes from knowing we are not alone, but instead surrounded by a community that loves us deeply. Peace that comes from faith in One who is far greater, far wiser and absolutely able to do ALL THINGS!

These challenges that have come our way, while they have been unexpected by us, have not surprised our God. He has always known they were coming and has always had a plan to see us through. One that we cannot imagine. Like Mary and Joseph who were simply trying to obey God when nothing made sense, we strive to do the same. We strive to trust God even when we don’t understand, we try to have open hearts and allow him to lead us, we stand in awe and wonder when he works in unexpected ways.

We also share our story, which is why I write today. I am firmly convinced that we are given trials not only for our growth, but for the benefit of others as well. We don’t know the end of our story, but God does and in that we can have peace that passes all understanding because we know the One who gives that peace abundantly. We share our story because humility is hard, admitting that you need help is hard, allowing others to bless you is hard, waiting on God is hard. But God-God is oh so good! He has been preparing and arranging circumstances, developing relationships, softening hearts, and working out all things for his glory. We are blessed, honored and humbled to be surrounded by a family, not only those we are related to, but also brothers and sisters in Christ willing to stand in the gap for us, pray for us, and love us! We are indeed blessed.

The fact this is happening in the midst of the Christmas season is not lost on us. It serves as a reminder that the most unexpected blessing of all is Jesus. It serves as a reminder that we have much to celebrate and much to be thankful for. Jesus came at an unlikely time, in an unlikely place and to unlikely parents. The best blessings are completely unexpected!