Unexpected.

Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. Matthew 24:44

One of Everette’s favorite bedtime stories is Papa Panov’s Special Day by Leo Tolstoy.

And in the midst of the poor Russian shoemaker’s longing to see Jesus, as he sat alone drinking coffee by his warm fire, unexpected sorts stumbled into his life, the raggedy road sweeper and the very thin and shabby mother with the illegitimate infant, with whom he shared his bread and soup.

And LORD God, as we wait with longing to welcome You into our heart and home, may our hearts stay likewise tender and open. May we too hear Your familiar voice whisper, “Didn’t you see me, beloved child?”

“Dearie, dearie me,” said Papa Panov slowly, pulling on his long grey moustache. “So He came after all.” The old shoemaker shook his head from side to side thoughtfully. Then he smiled and the sparkle came back behind the little round spectacles.