Surprises that have blessed us

In our Book Of Common Worship there are many prayers all of which I love and have been using them in my ministry repeatedly.  I experienced one of those prayers in person two days ago.  

It is on page 518 A prayer for Wednesday.  It reads, "Give us your peace, O God, that we may rejoice in your goodness to us and to all your children, and be thankful for your love revealed in Jesus Christ.  Especially we thank you for 
people who reveal your truth and righteousness...

courage to be bold disciples...

those who show hospitality...

surprises that have blessed us...

the unity of the church of Jesus Christ...

Give us your peace, O God, that we may be confident of your care for us and all your children, as we remember the needs of others.

On Sunday Feb.20th, 2011, Will and I had lunch with 9 people we had never met before.  Naturally I was nervous for the occasion.  As time went on I became not only comfortable but found my self enjoying their company and conversations.  They were the most real and kind people.  No pretension of any kind in them.  During this lunch I came to realize that I felt like I was among friends.  As we drove away from the restaurant, I felt like I had just a mini spiritual retreat.  Being with a group of faithful believers though they were strangers was the "Surprise that blessed me" that day.  This life of mine is filled with joy and being renewed. I am happy. I am joyful.  Whether or not this group of people become my friends in the long run, my heart is glad, I am happy all the same.  God has blessed me with surprise using them/through them.  This experience also reminds me of Ps.40:5.

Ps. 40:5

Great things are they that you have done, O Lord my God!

how great your wonders and your plans for us!

there is none who can be compared with you.

So, I continue to say, "thank  you Lord, for your surprise that blessed me" in Jesus' name. Amen