I just love it when we have unexpected showers in our desert, those not included in the meteorologist’s forecast or on my weather app. But the other morning, I was like, “What is that sound?” Outside, I saw it! Rain!

The downpour reminded me that Jesus could also be extremely unpredictable. Let’s peek back to recall Him catching people off guard.

Religious leaders were frequently shocked to see who Jesus ate with, what kind of people He healed, and the “unlawful” acts of kindness He did on the Sabbath.

At one point, a group was trying to find Jesus. They knew He had not boarded the boat the disciples left in so they assumed Jesus was still in the area. Little did they know that He had walked on the water to the boat to join His disciples! (John 6:16-25)

Then, there’s the time Jesus chose to pass through the typically avoided region of Samaria. His own disciples were surprised to see Him actually speaking to a Samaritan woman (a no-no in Jesus’ day). And who would have guessed that this woman was the first person Jesus chose to reveal His true identity to as the Messiah? (John 4:4-27)

So unpredictable!

Then, why am I surprised when Jesus doesn’t work in my life the way that I expect? The LORD reminds us, “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways” (Isaiah 55:9a).

I imagine Jesus is in my “boat.” But He’s not stopping at any of the places I expected and I find my days “interrupted” in unforeseeable ways.

I have a choice. I can be impatient, whine, and complain or I can accept this adventure with joy and hope, knowing that I am not alone and reassured that He has a better plan . . . which may include some rain.

May we be flexible and teachable on our journey with Jesus!

Enjoy the ride!