Reflection: Miracles Still Happen
| Overview: Miracles occur when people project divine love unconditionally into the world. In the past century, such miracles have uplifted humanity to levels never seen before. Today we stand at a crossroads. One choice is to see everyone as our neighbor. |
Go and proclaim the kingdom of God. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give” (Matthew 10:7–8).
Spiritual Insight:
A miracle is often seen as an extraordinary event that defies explanation, pointing toward divine presence. In the Bible, miracles signaled God’s freely given love---feeding the hungry, healing the sick, lifting the broken.
Jesus commissioned his followers to carry on this work: to heal, restore, and bring hope—and even to perform miracles. He promised we would not be alone; the Spirit would empower ordinary people to continue God’s work not only through miracles, but also through daily acts of kindness, forgiveness, and giving.
The prophets reminded us that justice and mercy matter more than ritual. Miracles were never meant to be chased after, but lived out—in the ways we serve and care for one another.
Many traditions echo this truth: that compassion and goodness have the power to transform. Whether in Islam, Hinduism, or Buddhism, the heart of the “miracle” is people embodying mercy, healing, and wisdom in ways that uplift others.
Human Practice Over Time:
People debate whether miracles ceased in ancient times—or whether they continue today. Theologians argue that God still works through us: through breakthroughs in medicine, improvements in living standards, through unexpected acts of forgiveness. Examples include:
The discovery of penicillin in 1928, turning once-fatal infections into curable illnesses.
The decline of slavery and systemic discrimination, and the empowerment of women worldwide.
The global outcry against one of humanity’s last great scourges—war with its indiscriminate killing—showing a growing hunger for peace.
One extraordinary moment of forgiveness showed us the miraculous power of the Spirit: when the Amish community forgave the man who murdered their children—and even attended his funeral. That act resounded across the world as a miracle of which the human spirit is capable.
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Modern Application:
And what of AI?... Some fear it. Others see it as a tool that can multiply abundance and reduce suffering.
One example is COVID-19 vaccines – AI helped researchers analyze protein structures, model vaccine candidates, and accelerate clinical trials. The result: vaccines developed in under a year, saving millions of lives and preventing global collapse.
The choice is ours. Humanity can either take AI into the world and do miraculous good works, or misuse it. The real miracle is not the technology itself, but the Spirit working through us to use every tool—including AI—for compassion, justice, and healing.
Contemplation:
Have you ever experienced something you could only describe as a miracle?
Do you believe God’s miracles continue today through people and discoveries?
Where might the Spirit of God be nudging you to step out beyond your own courage and strength?
Closing Blessing:
May you remember that miracles are not only signs of God’s power but invitations to join God’s work. May the Spirit empower you to live with courage, compassion, and faith—becoming the miracle someone else is waiting for. Do not be afraid—God’s got your back.