Skip to main content

Surprise

January 17, 2026

Ephesians 1:18-20
18 having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope of his calling, and what are the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the exceeding greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to that working of the strength of his might 20 which he worked in Christ, when he raised him from the dead and made him to sit at his right hand in the heavenly places,

18 I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, 19 and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength 20 he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms,   Ephesians 1:18-20  (NIV)

      Have you ever been to a surprise birthday party?  They are so much fun.  The unsuspecting birthday person walks into a dark room, the lights turn on, and immediately everyone shouts “Surprise!”.  The look on the birthday face is one of shock which usually turns to smiles and laughter as their eyes come into focus and they realize what is going on.

In today’s verse, the Apostle Paul writes a prayer for the followers of Jesus in Ephesus. He prays the “eyes of their heart” may be able to see three things that they may know.  It is my prayer we see and know these same three things. First, the hope to which we have been called. As believers in Jesus, we have something to look forward to.  This hope goes beyond a wish. Our hope is looking forward to experiencing a promise fulfilled.  He who started a good work in you, will see it to completion. (Phil 1:6) There are so many promises like this that we can look forward to seeing and knowing.

Second, he prays the “eyes of their hearts” see so they may know the riches of God’s glorious inheritance.  Think of it, as adopted children of God you have a glorious inheritance. Take a moment and ponder the things you have inherited as a child of God. Eternal life, joy during trials, are just a couple that come to mind. There are so many. 

Lastly, Paul prays that his Ephesian friends see and know the great power for those who believe.  What is this great power?  Paul describes this great power for us.  It is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated Him in the heavenly realms for all time. This same power is at work within us!

May the Holy Spirit help us see and know the hope, the riches, and the power God has provided for us.  Why would He do this for us?  …Surprise!  He loves us!

Bret A.

‘63/ ’79 Stewartville MN

Doris Jean H

’44 / ’55 Manheim PA

Birth year / spiritual birth year / hometown

Share This Post