When we think about the miracles of Jesus—the power they transmitted and the great changes they wrought in people’s lives—we often focus on the spectacular.
But Jesus usually performed miracles because He desired to meet people’s needs. A personal touch—not the power—was a motivating factor. When he met the widow of Nain, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.” (Lk. 7:13b NIV)
Everyone probably held their breath when Jesus approached the coffin, wondering what the Rabbi would do. The men carrying it stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” (v. 14b)
Dramatic? Yes. The young man did get up. All the people were amazed and turned their thoughts toward God.
But remember the relationship between the mother and the son. We do not know exactly what they did after the funeral was interrupted. But they probably went home together.
Originally published August 3, 1984.
Picture: Patty's garden, 2008. Photo by Patty.
But Jesus usually performed miracles because He desired to meet people’s needs. A personal touch—not the power—was a motivating factor. When he met the widow of Nain, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.” (Lk. 7:13b NIV)
Everyone probably held their breath when Jesus approached the coffin, wondering what the Rabbi would do. The men carrying it stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” (v. 14b)
Dramatic? Yes. The young man did get up. All the people were amazed and turned their thoughts toward God.
But remember the relationship between the mother and the son. We do not know exactly what they did after the funeral was interrupted. But they probably went home together.
Originally published August 3, 1984.
Picture: Patty's garden, 2008. Photo by Patty.
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