FInding God in the ordianary: Lessons from an unexpected miracle
Finding God in the Ordinary: Lessons from an Unexpected Miracle
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to overlook the extraordinary potential hidden within the ordinary. We wake up, go about our routines, and often fail to notice the divine opportunities surrounding us. But what if we approached each day with expectant hearts, believing that God could use us at any moment?
This powerful truth is beautifully illustrated in the account of Peter and John’s encounter with a beggar at the temple gate. It was just another ordinary day for these disciples as they made their way to pray, a ritual they performed three times daily. Similarly, for the man who had been crippled since birth, it was business as usual as he was carried to his regular spot to beg for alms.
Little did any of them know that this mundane moment was about to become miraculous.
As Peter and John approached, the beggar called out for money. It would have been easy for them to pass by, focused on their destination and spiritual duties. But instead, they stopped. They engaged. They made eye contact. In that split second of connection, everything changed.
Peter’s words ring out across the centuries: “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” With outstretched hand, Peter helped the man to his feet. Instantly, strength flooded into legs that had never known it before. The once-crippled man leapt up, walking and jumping and praising God.
This miraculous healing draws our attention to several profound truths:
1. God works through ordinary people in ordinary moments.
Peter and John weren’t setting out to perform miracles that day. They were simply going about their normal religious observances. Yet they remained spiritually attuned, ready for God to move at any moment. How often do we miss divine appointments because we’re too preoccupied with our own agendas?
2. Faith requires action.
Both Peter and the beggar demonstrated remarkable faith. Peter had the audacity to command healing in Jesus’ name. The beggar, who had never walked a day in his life, had the courage to attempt standing. Are we willing to step out in faith when God prompts us, even if it seems impossible?
3. True healing leads to praise.
The man’s response is beautiful – he didn’t just walk away, but entered the temple “walking and jumping and praising God.” When we experience God’s touch in our lives, it should naturally overflow into joyful worship.
4. Miracles open doors for the Gospel.
As crowds gathered in amazement, Peter seized the opportunity to proclaim Jesus. He redirected their attention from the spectacle to the Savior, calling them to repentance and faith. Our testimonies of God’s work in our lives can become powerful platforms for sharing the good news.
This account challenges us to live with a sense of anticipated expectancy. Are our spiritual eyes open to see where God is moving? Are we prepared to be used by Him at any moment? The truth is, we never know when our ordinary day might become the stage for God’s extraordinary work.
Consider the words of the apostle Peter later in his life: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). This declaration takes on deeper meaning when we remember Peter’s journey. Once a man who denied Christ in fear, he became bold in proclaiming Jesus at every opportunity.
Peter’s transformation reminds us that our past failures don’t disqualify us from being used by God. In fact, they often become the very soil from which our most powerful testimonies grow. Just as Jesus restored and commissioned Peter, He offers each of us the chance to start anew, to live with purpose and expectancy.
Living this way requires daily surrender. Jesus’ words echo in our hearts: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). This isn’t a one-time decision, but a continual choosing to align our will with God’s, even when the path ahead is unclear.
It’s important to note that God doesn’t always intervene in dramatic, miraculous ways. Sometimes His work is subtle, seen only in hindsight. The key is cultivating a heart that’s tuned to His presence in every circumstance. Whether it’s an unexpected provision, a timely word of encouragement, or the strength to persevere through difficulty – God is always at work in the ordinary moments of our lives.
As we reflect on this powerful account, let’s challenge ourselves:
1. How can we approach each day with greater spiritual awareness?
2. Are there “beggars” in our lives – people in need that we typically overlook?
3. What impossible situations are we facing that could become opportunities for God to display His power?
4. How can we be more prepared to share our faith when God opens doors?
Remember, our impossibilities are God’s opportunities. What seems beyond hope to us is the perfect canvas for Him to demonstrate His glory. Even in the midst of adversity, God’s mercy can shine through, often in ways we least expect.
As we go about our seemingly ordinary days, let’s live with the expectant urgency of Peter. Let’s keep our eyes open for divine appointments, our hearts ready to respond in faith, and our lives poised to be used as instruments of God’s grace. For in the midst of the mundane, we might just encounter the miraculous.