Do we dare "Expect the Unexpected?"

William Thourlby in his book, "You Are What You Wear", states that “when you step into a room even though no one in that room knows you or has seen you before, they will make ten decisions about you based solely on your appearance.” They may make many more, but you can be assured they will at least judge the following: 1. Your economic level; 2. Your education level; 3. Your trustworthiness; 4. Your social position; 5. Your level of sophistication; 6. Your economic status; 7. Your social heritage; 8. Your educational level; 9. Your success and 10. Your moral character. The world hasn’t changed much. No wonder your mother taught you to always make a good first impression. Some people judge only by appearances.

A certain woman taught employee etiquette and proper dress codes for a major Midwestern corporation. One day as she was stepping onto the elevator, a man casually dressed in jeans and a golf shirt got on with her. Thinking of her responsibilities, she scolded him, “Dressed a little casually today, aren’t we?” The man replied, “That’s one benefit of owning the company . . .”

People in Jesus’ time rejected Jesus because he didn’t fit their expectations. Where was his horse? Where was his army? He didn’t look like a mighty warrior.

The people of Jesus’ day had the opportunity of entering Christ’s kingdom, but his appearance put them off. And there are many people who still reject Christ for the same reason. They see Christianity, faith in Jesus, as something weak, impotent, a crutch for hurting people. All this talk about love, all these hymns about peace and goodwill for all people. This is not the language of our time. “Look out for #1. What’s in it for me?” This is the language of our society. --- Love, compassion, gentleness, respect—what have they to do with us? So what do you expect God to do for you or with you in this season of Advent?

Do we dare "Expect the Unexpected?" Join us for worship next Sunday at Plymouth Church as we explore the possibilities!