Do you believe in miracles?
I’ve read lots of theological definitions of a miracle but I think many of us might simply define a miracle as that which is unlikely, impossible or unexpected, but yet it happens. Being a country music fan, I was inspired by Joe Nichol’s song, “The Impossible.” In fact, I would say it’s a song about miracles. And these words from his song sum up my belief in miracles: “I’ve learned to never underestimate the impossible.”
People everywhere long for something. For better health, for improved self-image, for a happier and more satisfying life, for peace, for purpose, for security, for safety, ….
What miracle do you seek? Do you believe it’s obtainable?
The Bible offers some assurances. Matthew, Mark and Luke all wrote that “all things are possible with God.” I’m sure this trio saw the apparently impossible proved possible more than a few times.
Jesus told us faith can move mountains. Of course this kind of faith sounds like it requires belief that the impossible is truly possible before we can witness it.
Considering the virgin birth of Jesus itself gives us reason to think that what may seem to be miraculous and unbelievable can happen. Perhaps that’s why the Christmas season inspires my childlike enthusiasm that wishes can come true, that dreams can become realities, and that anything is possible.
The Bible is filled with accounts that stagger the imagination. Again and again good conquers evil, the incurable are healed, the impossible is proven possible. Biblical scholar, Mary Baker Eddy, wrote, “The so-called miracles contained in Holy Writ are neither supernatural nor preternatural; for God is good, and goodness is more natural than evil.”
Christmas fills my heart with hope and my soul with expectation. Believing anything is possible opens us to new ways of seeing – a change in our point of view. When the premise for our viewpoint has no limits, then strong is our faith, firm is our hope and great is our expectation.
We can begin by noticing what seem like everyday miracles. Look at the stars on a clear night. What could be more awe-inspiring than the fact that the universe exists – that you and I exist? That each of us must surely be here for a purpose?
What could be more incredible than the profound statement of hope written by Anne Frank in her diary from her hiding place in Nazi Germany: “In spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart”?
Many times in my life it’s been proven to me the impossible can become possible and the unlikely and unexpected can be naturally and assuredly experienced. That I could go to college even though I had no money and was uncertain how the tuition would get paid. That I could meet the man who would become my husband for 24 years and counting. That I could have a baby. That I could be freed of pain when medication didn’t work. That I could love and be happy where I live. My list could go on and on. I could write a book telling about all the “miracles” of my life. I bet you could, too.
If we open our eyes and deepen our perception, we will see miracles all around us. Albert Einstein says, “There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle.”
Keeping my heart filled with hope and expectation, I will never underestimate the impossible again. Thanks, Joe Nichols, for your song of promise! As the French proverb says, “There are no miracles for those that have faith in them.” For those that believe, what seems impossible is possible!