Surprise!

Have you ever tried to surprise someone? The planning, the cunning, the secrets, the anticipation, the excitement. You just can't wait to see the look on their face, their startled yet joyful reaction!

Have you ever planned to surprise someone who hasn't seen you in a while? Maybe a long distance friend who didn't expect you?  Maybe even a reunion years in the making? You may have to wait a few minutes for the recognition to light up their eyes.  Partly because they would never expect to see you in this unexpected place, partly because it's been awhile since they've seen you. You just about can't stand the suspense as you wait for them to see you, to really see that it's YOU!

Many years ago, there were 2 gentlemen on a trip, they came across another man journeying in the same direction so they decided to travel together. The 2 men had recently just lost a close friend, they were consumed with grief and they were feeling quite hopeless. The 3rd man tried to speak hope into their situation, and the other 2 felt it warm their hearts a little. As they reached the town they were heading to, the 3rd man mentioned he was still on his journey and was about to continue when the other 2 invited him to stay with them for dinner. He accepted their gracious invitation. They sat and ate together.

And he waited.

He waited, secret smile hidden.

Waiting in eager anticipation for them to recognize him.

To really see him.

And then they did! They realize, they KNOW him!

And he knows them. Knows them like no one ever has.

Surprise! "I'm Alive!"

He is risen! He is risen indeed.