There has always been a great debate as to whether or not the miracles recorded in the Bible are actual or symbolic. One thing is sure, people have always felt the need for a miracle. Life, as it is, can be challenging. The suffering, chaos, and conflict we experience day by day invite us to hope beyond all logic and reason for something better. We long for God to intervene.

 

When we see people fleeing their native Country in the hope of something better, we hope those “left behind” will somehow be saved. Which one of us wants to see another hungry child cry out for relief? In a World torn apart by a pandemic, we hope that suddenly all will be healed. Indeed, if there is a God in heaven, we need a miracle on Earth.

 

Isaiah 35 longs for such an intervention. The Prophet “sees” into the future with the hope of what is needed in the present. The mute will speak. The lame will dance. The deaf will hear. The blind will see. It is a powerful vision, and one can only hope it is not an illusion or wishful thinking.

 

All of us know people who are waiting for a miracle to happen for themselves or someone else. It is a wonderful way to live. I wish I had the guts to live on the edge of hope rather than fretting on a cliff of despair. 

 

If you think about it, the willingness to live in hope is miraculous in itself. Living in the hope of a better day might very well be the cause of a better day. God bless the hopeful, especially those who dedicate themselves to doing in the present what they long for in the future. Indeed, hope might very well be the miracle.

 

Isaiah 35 longs for the day when seeing, hearing, and speaking will be restored to an afflicted people. I am deeply touch by those around me who see the anguish of the afflicted and come to their aid. I am moved in my heart by those who hear the cries of hurting and offer comfort. I am moved to tears by those who speak up for those who think they have no voice.

 

Think of all the people in your life who never let a day go by without seeing, hearing, and speaking out. They challenge us to be the miracle we hope will happen in the future. They invite us to find our voice and speak up for what is right, true, and beautiful. They march through the streets of life inviting all of us to join in the dance of a new day.

 

Blessings to you, Holy Community, for seeing with the eyes of your heart, hearing with the ears of your soul, and speaking out in the deeds of your hands. Thank you for being the miracle.   

Notice

 

As things begin to return to a new normal, we at The Interfaith Peace Project are here for you in any way that you need us. The Antioch Center is now open to fully vaccinated people on Wednesdays, from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. We are vigilant and will adjust to any and all recommendations from the state and county. We will continue our work through Zoom as we add in person programs. If you would like to schedule an in person or Zoom program or would like a phone appointment with any of us, give us a call. You may call or email Tom at:

 

Tom Bonacci

925-787- 9279