I have long been convinced that the one constant in Christianity is the element of surprise.

Just when we think we have it all figured out...

Wham!

Every time we become cocksure about this or that aspect of Christianity...

Watch out!

Our convictions are bound to be blown away by Jesus.

If we think we understand a Bible story and have it all figured out, we probably have missed the point.

This is why the disciples were always confused. Jesus kept pointing them to the kingdom, which meant they were always turning around.

If our spiritual life is right where we want it to be, if we’re convinced we’ve done our share of good deeds, we are in for a very big surprise.

When a Bible passage really bugs us or a sermon makes us squirm, we need to pay real close attention because these are the times when the kingdom is coming.

So for all of us who have our pat answers and certain responses, who rely on just this verse or that, who have found the ideal church or the perfect understanding...watch out!

The kingdom is very, very near and it is bound to surprise us.