Quiet Miracles
By Barrie Fox of Kirkby in Ashfield, Nottinghamshire, England
You are a good and faithful people, but sometimes you fail to see the power that is resident in your own story and fellowship. Look carefully, listen attentively, and sense the Spirit among you. —Doctrine and Covenants 162:8a
Worship, song, scripture, and prayer, constantly remind us of who we are and to whom we belong. If we experience worship deeply, we will both recognize and celebrate Christ’s involvement in our lives. How important it is that we sense and appreciate God’s presence in and around us.
At times, we do not find it easy to breathe normally. We might become acutely aware of what a blessing it is to have the breath of life within us. Fresh air is usually all around us and is precious to us. Often we take its presence and its value for granted. Is it not the same with God’s presence in the world around us and in our lives?
One definition of miracle is an event that is too marvelous to fully understand. At times, however, we use the word glibly when we experience something wonderful. If we succeed in doing something we thought we would never be able to do, we might comment casually, “It was a miracle that I did it…but I did.”
I suppose that is loosely an acceptable use of the word. Yet I am thrilled to read of the memorable miracles Jesus performed—acts that make a significant impression on the mind of the believer. However, let’s remember the beauties of nature—the sea, the stars, the sun, and the moon—are all quiet miracles. Christians and those of other faiths should both appreciate and thank the God we worship but do not fully understand.
Prayer for Peace
Mystery God, even if we do not fully understand you, we know enough to love you. You bring out the best in us. You inspire us to act for justice and peace.
Spiritual Practice: Growing a Gracious, Generous Heart
Open your heart to God’s grace and generosity with a “breath prayer.” Let your breathing slow and deepen. Be aware of God’s breath moving in and out of your heart. Spend several minutes focusing on breathing in God’s generosity. With each breath, silently name one gift for which you are thankful. Let your heart expand to contain God’s gracious outpouring of love. With each breath out, name one gift you want to share from the overflow of your heart.
Peace Covenant
Today, God, I will see your quiet miracles of love and grace.
