Easter Sunday’s surprise snowfall reminded me that life is full of surprises. March 31st was my birthday when many years ago, another snowfall greeted me and welcomed me into life. But this Sunday morning, we were celebrating the new life in God brought forth through the Resurrection. I woke that morning to behold God’s marvelous gift to me. Trees painted in the glistening whitewash of snow with sunbeams bouncing off each branch – talk about a sight to behold! But another reality struck me – others would have to clean off their cars. That was true for friends who were taking me out to lunch to celebrate. Life has many perspectives – one person’s delight could be another person’s trail. If we are the one gifted, do we also have compassion for those who experience misfortune? But equally true to remember is that no matter how we see the world around us and experience what touches our lives, God is always with us. This is such an important part of the Easter message.
So the God of Surprises, walks with us, opening us and urging us to be receptive and sensitive to each other. Learning to live this way then we also grow in our ability to surprise others, and maybe God, too.
Barbara Vaughan. CSJ