The Miraculous and the Mundane

Peter had more than one brush with a prison break. At one point he lay bound between two guards because Herod planned to kill him. Then an angel visited him in the night. The angel came with light and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands (Acts. 12:7b NKJV)

Peter and the angel passed through two guard posts and doors opened without a visible source of power. Soldiers slept through it all, and he was miraculously restored to the church that had been praying for his release.

But in spite of the surreal scene, God did not let Peter lose touch with mundane reality. The only additional recorded words of the angel: Gird yourself and tie on your sandals . . . Put on your garment and follow me. (v. 8)

The power of God released chains, opened doors, and kept soldiers asleep. Surely God could help the fellow get dressed when overwhelmed by so much excitement. But no, Peter was told to dress himself. He could not lose his connection to everyday life.

Originally published January 9, 1987.