Reflecting
on the Acts of the Apostles, I’m challenged by the image of the Apostles being
flogged after leaving the Sanhedrin and then actually "rejoicing" to
be found worthy to suffer in Jesus' name: After recalling
the Apostles, they had them flogged, ordered them to stop speaking in the name
of Jesus, and dismissed them. So they left the presence of the Sanhedrin,
rejoicing that they had been found worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of
the name. (Acts 5:34-42)
I have to
ask myself, "How often, when I suffer, do I grumble?" Filled with the Holy Spirit, the apostles had
a profound unity with Jesus, which I’d love to have. Imagine how powerful a grace it would be to
have such an intimacy with Jesus that we would even experience that intimacy in
suffering. Graces to which we are
attracted are worth asking for.
“This is truly the Prophet, the one who is
to come into the world.” (John 6:1-15). This was the
reaction of many to Jesus, as He turned five loaves and two fish into a feast
for thousands. We spend our lives
waiting to see miracles of this magnitude performed; to see firsthand the power
of God.
If a miracle
is an extraordinary event believed to be caused by God’s power, then the word
‘miracle’ has a much broader definition than walking on water. If I look at my own life, I’m continually
amazed at the power of God, and I should count every blessing a miracle. Finding my wife, the perfect match for me for
the last 47 years—miracle; having children and grandchildren who continually
remind me of the graces God has blessed me with—miracle; freely able to worship
and praise God without fear of reprisal—miracle; being genuinely happy when I
wake up every morning—miracle. Imagine
our world if we could see and appreciate all of the “mini miracles.” We would see that we’re loved by a Creator who
wants to bless us daily.
When we’re on the receiving end of a miracle, what is our reaction? “Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks.” There’s no greater example than Jesus. He knew the power of the Father, and immediately gave Him the thanks He rightfully deserved. What a lesson for me, to not only see the miracle, but then to glorify the Father in response. I’m already looking forward to the next miracle in my life, whatever that may be. And when it comes, I know how I want to react. Every day is a good day for a miracle.
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