There’s a sign I’ve had hanging over my computer for many years – I see it every day and am always inspired by it: Be Realistic – Plan For a Miracle! When human roads to progress are blocked, or when we’re under spiritual attack, miracles are vital. Everyone at one time or another needs a miracle – they can happen in our finances, relationships, jobs, health, or protection, etc.
I personally like to call miracles ‘divine interventions.’ They can come in the form of God causing something to happen or God preventing something from happening. Both fall into the miracle category and both are most welcome. As someone once remarked, “I do not believe in miracles. I rely on them.”
And the absolutely fabulous news here is that God loves being involved in our day-to-day lives. He delights in bringing miracles into our human adventure! His very nature is intervention! Think Adam & Eve, Moses at the Red Sea, Lazarus raised from the dead…the list is endless!
The definition of a miracle is an event beyond the power of any human being or an event beyond any physical law. It’s a supernatural occurrence or a wonder brought about by the power of God. Robert Breault says it all with his insightful quote: “I believe that there is an explanation for everything. So yes, I believe in miracles.”
There was a fellow in the Bible by the name of Malchus who was in charge of the delegation sent to arrest Jesus prior to His crucifixion. Late one night – armed with swords & torches – around 200 soldiers & temple guards were sent to arrest Jesus. Malchus probably thought this job would be a piece of cake, but suddenly, a sword flashed out of the shadows as Peter lunged at him.
Perhaps Malchus saw the shining blade coming his way and was able to slightly dodge the attack. Whatever happened, Peter’s sword barely missed his intended target – Malchus’ head – and instead cut off his right ear. A close call for sure!
The Bible tells us that Jesus immediately healed him. We don’t know if Jesus picked up his ear from the dirt or gave him a brand new ear. All we know is that Malchus had his ear either repaired or replaced only by a miracle intervention!
And…not to get political here, but I personally believe that Trump recently had his own miracle – divine intervention – as his right ear was hit by a would-be assassin’s bullet intended for his head. I have heard commentator after commentator use words like miracle – divine help – providence, even…wait for it…Act of GOD! OMG!
It reminds me of that rich quote given us by Ben Franklin (1706-1790): “The longer I live the more convincing proofs I see of this truth: That God governs in the affairs of men.” Amen and thank you God!
We sometimes think God doesn’t move quickly enough, but that said, when we stop to think about it, most of us have experienced many divine interventions – we just have to remember that God isn’t bound by time the way we are!
It reminds me of a humorous story about a guy named Robert. He was growing bored in retirement so he became a Walmart greeter. The customers loved his cheerful and engaging personality but there was a problem: Robert was perpetually late for work.
Finally the manager called him into his office – “Robert, without question you are one of our best greeters. However, you’re always late. Now, I know your career was in the military. What did they say when you showed up late?” Robert smiled and calmly replied, “Well – they usually said, ‘Good morning General. May I bring you a cup of coffee?’”
I love that story. ‘Late’ or not, the truth is, life is a collection of thousands of daily miracles. Just think about this stellar quote: “We live on a blue planet that circles around a ball of fire next to a moon that moves the sea…and you don’t believe in miracles?” Definitely works for me!
Bob and Susan Beckett pastor The Dwelling Place City Church at 27100 Girard Street in Hemet, CA. For more information, you may contact them at DPCitychurch.org
