A ninety-six year old man won fifty million dollars in the lottery. When his family was notified, they called their pastor for help since they were afraid the news might cause the old fellow to have a heart attack. The pastor agreed to help. He went over to visit the elderly man. They talked about the weather and life in general. Finally the minister asked the old man, “Suppose you won fifty million dollars, how would that change your life?” “It wouldn’t,” said the man, “I would still have arthritis. I would still be ninety-six years old. In fact, if I had fifty million dollars I would probably give it to the church.” With that the minister had a heart attack and died.

Life is full of surprises, some good, some not so good. Advent is a season for surprises. It is a time to get ready—not f…