For two painstaking years, Rembrandt poured his heart into what would become one of his most famous works, “The Night Watch.” This monumental painting was commissioned by a civic militia group expecting a traditional portrait: a neat, orderly line-up of distinguished men. Instead, when Rembrandt finally unveiled his masterpiece, the sponsors were shocked. The painting was unlike any group portrait they had ever seen. Figures were portrayed in dramatic light and shadow, each playing a unique role in the scene rather than standing stiffly side by side. Some individuals, including a humble baker, appeared prominently spotlighted and dressed in elaborate attire—far more attention than anyone could have anticipated. Such an unconventional depiction clashed with the group’s preconceived ideals of what a formal civic portrait should look like. Their expectations were shattered, reminding us how powerful our assumptions can be.

In John 7, we see a similar dynamic unfold. The religious leaders had a strict image of how the Messiah ought to appear and where He should come from. When Jesus arrived on the scene—humble background, radical teachings, and all—His very existence challenged their rigid assumptions. Rather than adjusting their viewpoint, many of them clung to their preconceived ideas, refusing to see the new thing God was doing in their midst.

Expectations can easily become a source of conflict in our everyday relationships as well. We enter marriage expecting a flawless partner. We approach parenting assuming children will conform to our ideals. When reality unfolds differently, disappointment brews. Likewise, in our spiritual lives, we presume God will adhere to the neat parameters we set for Him: step in during our crises, step back when we want independence, and always answer in ways we personally deem best. Yet, genuine connection—whether with people or with God—requires flexibility. It calls us to acknowledge we do not have it all figured out.

Faith demands humility and a willingness to surrender our precious expectations. Just as Rembrandt’s audience needed a new perspective to appreciate the brilliance of “The Night Watch,” we need open hearts to recognize God’s astonishing ways. Instead of boxing the Divine into our own standards, we must allow Him room to work in unexpected places, times, and methods. By continually examining and reexamining our assumptions, we make space for spiritual growth, deeper trust, and a living, dynamic relationship with God—a relationship unbounded by our preconceived notions.