A “black swan” is a person, movement, event that is unexpected, has a major impact, and is usually rationalized or downplayed with hindsight.
After all, who believes in black swans. Most people would say that swans are white, but black swans, while rare, exist. The first documented black swan sighting was in Western Australia by a Dutch researcher in 1650. John Stuart Mill, a British philosopher and economist living in the 1800s, coined what has become known as “black swan theory” or “black swan events” within his writings on logical fallacy.
Our expectations are often for much less than is possible. Many sell themselves short because to believe in the miraculous is just too risky.
Jesus Christ is the embodiment of a black swan event. He is so much more than anyone every expected. Jesus defied expectations throughout his life and continues to do so today in the hearts and lives of children and adults worldwide.
When he traveled for that short three years about Judea, people expected healing. He forgave sins. Fishermen expected to catch fish, but they encountered the Messiah (Luke 5: 1 – 11). A widow expected to bury her son. Jesus restored his life (Luke 7: 11 – 17). The disciples expected to send the crowds home to eat. Jesus fed 5,000 with a few fish and loaves (John 6: 1 – 15).
The people wanted a political leader to overthrow Rome. Jesus offered an eternal kingdom and ability to overcome the control of sin and death. Leaders and other educated, important people felt threatened by Jesus. They crucified him because he didn’t look or talk like a messiah.
He rose again three days later and lives still today (John 20: 1 – 29).
Salvation Army
“Worthy’s” charity of choice is Salvation Army. Ten percent of all book sales go to Salvation Army. Their mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, and to meet human need in His name, without discrimination. Click here to read more.