"Everyone wants a miracle.
But here's the catch: no one wants to be
in a situation that necessitates one!
Of course, you can't have one without the other."
That's a quote from Mark Batterson in his book called The Grave Robber: How Jesus Can Make Your Impossible Possible (p. 14). Our church Bible study group is currently studying the book, which talks about the seven miracles performed by Jesus in the book of John in the Bible. It purports to help readers look for miracles in their own lives, pray expectantly for them, and more. More than seeking miracles, Batterson invites readers to seek "the only One who can perform them" (p. 14).
Isn't the quote at the opening at least somewhat true? We all want to see miracles - to experience them and know they happen. But, consider the situations in which we think or hear of miracles occurring - healing of illnesses or injuries, provision in times of lacking (job, finances, food, shelter, etc.), saving from horrible events (natural disasters, punishment by government, etc.). Do any of us wish ourselves to be in one of those positions? I don't typically hear anyone say, "I wish I could be terminally sick or injured so I could experience a miracle in my life." Or replace that with any of the other options. You still wouldn't hear people ask for such circumstances.
Over the past weekend, my daughter and I were listening to some music and one of the songs we heard was "Famous For" by Tauren Wells (2020). The chorus says:
"Make way through the waters
Walk me through the fire
Do what You are famous for
What You are famous for
Shut the mouths of lions
Bring dry bones to life and
Do what You are famous for
What You are famous for
I believe in You
God, I believe in You"
If we want God to make a way through the waters, we need to journey through the waters.
If we want God to walk us through the fire, we need to be in the fire.
If we want God to shut the mouths of lions, we need to be in the presence of hungry lions.
If we want to see God bring dry bones to life, we need to be surrounded by dry bones.
Where are you right now? Are you ready to take that step out of the boat and walk on the water to Jesus, or are you still sitting in the cozy cabin on the shore? No, it's not an easy step. It takes faith in the One who performs miracles.
Are you getting ready for a miracle?
