My favorite author, Lemony Snicket, writes,

The table of elements does not contain one of the most powerful elements that make up our world, and that is the element of surprise.

During my lunch break today, I decided that God uses the element of surprise better than anyone else.

After a few months of giving very valid excuses for not calling churches to request the opportunity to present my ministry in Spain, I finally forced myself to call 2 churches yesterday (Thursday).  I dreaded the phone calls all morning, and, knowing that I would have to make the calls during my lunch break, I avoided lunch until my stomach was gurgling audibly.

After slowly, methodically eating my black beans, I finally dialed the first church.  Ring, ring, ring “Thank you for calling   XX   Baptist Church.  Please leave a message.”  I stuttered a frazzled message and clicked “end.”  Taking a deep breath, I dialed the next church on my list. “Pastor   XX  is out of the office.  If you leave your number, he will call you back.”  Another 10 digits; another voicemail.  Yesterday, I went 0/3.

But like a true go-getter, I was not to be discouraged!  Last night, I made a longer list of churches to call today.  I rushed to eat lunch because I was eager to overcome yesterday’s futile phone calls.

I will break it to you gently:  I left 5 more messages today.

And then God reminded me that He uses the element of surprise.

When I opened my laptop to finish a school assignment before heading back to work, I saw that another friend had donated toward my ministry in Spain.  While I was making phone calls, God was — SURPRISE! — making calls of His own.  Many people on earth will contribute to my ministry in Spain, but ultimately, God will be the one to provide my needs.

I echo the words of the Psalmist:

Not to us, O LORD, not to us,
but to your name give glory,
for the sake of your steadfast love
and your faithfulness!

(Psalm 115:1)