Encouraging one’s mind and spirit to dwell on the miraculous in the midst of global pandemic, racial violence, civil unrest and a recent fire-stricken community is not for the faint of heart.
The practice of “welcoming miracles” while surrounded by literal death and despair is one that relies on those rarely used muscles of the heart--the muscles that are reserved for the guttural groans of the Spirit that Paul references in Romans 8.
So I dug down to those depths within my heart with some reluctance, to see and hear God’s still small voice of hope and beauty. It felt like I was taking a risk of possibly inviting more heartache, if He didn’t come through with a reminder of his miracles at work.
But as we know, our God is faithful.
Lamentations 3:21-26 NLT
Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, “The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!” The LORD is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the LORD.
He nudged my mind toward memories of connection. Human to human connection is miraculous.
When an aging person holds an infant and the two lock eyes and share in the spectrum of humanity, it’s a miracle.
When over 200 individuals in a row opt to “pay-it-forward” in line at a fast food establishment, giving thought and acknowledgement to the human experience of giving and receiving between the car in front of them and behind them, it’s a miracle. (Click to read story).
When a spouse nods in understanding to their partner about their shared concerns for their future endeavors, it’s a miracle.
When an individual in colorful clothing, alternative hairstyle and multiple piercings stretches an arm around a simple, rugged farmer who just lost his home to a fire, it’s a miracle.
God designed each human being with such intricate, distinct features, down to whether we like morning or nighttime better, or prefer sweet food to salty food, and yet, he sprinkles points of striking connection throughout our daily lives.
What I find to be the most miraculous about experiencing that moment of being seen and known by another person, is that it seems to be a tangible taste of God. During seasons when the trials and turmoils around us are loudly staring us in the face, we need to touch, taste, see, smell and hear God. And what a gift that he gives us each other to satisfy that need.
About the Author
Britni is a quiet but fearless spirit who is earnestly seeking the beauty of the redemption that Jesus has personally determined for her life. Committed to the truth that listening breeds understanding and understanding results in compassion, she clings to the power of life’s stories. She has embarked on the venture of discovering her own story and lending an ear to the stories lived out in others and savors the trace of Jesus that is woven throughout them all. Currently, that journey has landed her in a balancing act between the role of wife, momma, and a mental health Care Coordinator.