For the last few months I have begun praying a simple, little prayer in the morning as I drive to work: Jesus, would You just come and surprise me? Allow myself to be surprised by You.
Now this specific prayer is in regards to where my life finds me right now and the desires of my heart. But I think this prayer could apply to career, vocation, relationships, families, unmet expectations, hopes, and dreams. What would it look like for you to ask Jesus to surprise you right where life finds you?
The Gospel today finds Jesus telling the disciples they cannot know the time or hour when He will return. They must be prepared and found waiting in earnest expectation.
But regardless of the week, day, or year, it will be a surprise! And God-willing, He will find us ready and alert. We believe in and follow the God of Surprises who called Abraham and Sarah from their homes to the land He promised them. They held onto their faith in Him, waiting on His promises for their good. (See Hebrews 11:8-12.) Like them, our challenge is to live in that sacred tension of both being prepared and being open to Jesus coming to surprise us in our everyday lives
In my mind, I like the idea of surprises but when it comes down to it, a surprise is a time when we aren't in control! And it is hard sometimes to be open to that. And so in my own little way, I repeatedly ask Jesus to come surprise His little Patty-kins because I know I need help to be open to Him.
Pray for your heart to be open to His surprises today and surrender that control over to Him.
The Suscipe Prayer is so powerful. Try to incorporate it into your daily prayer.
Patty Breen is a full-time lay minister who finds joy in running, strong cups of coffee, and all things Ignatian spirituality. A Midwestern gal from the mitten state, she is constantly learning to find grace in all things. She is passionate about ministry, writing, a great lipstick color, and smiling is her favorite. Find out more about her here.
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