In a chapter on miracles in The Jesus I Never Knew, Yancey makes two statements that struck me. Once again, reminders that my perspective is sometimes so narrow and so wrong.
1. 'Some see miracles as an implausible suspension of the laws of the physical universe. As signs, though, they serve just the opposite function. Death, decay, entropy, and destruction are the true suspensions of God's laws; miracles are the early glimpses of restoration. In the words of Jurgen Moltmann, "Jesus' healings are not supernatural miracles in a natural world. They are the only truly 'natural' things in a world that is unnatural, demonized and wounded."'
Yes...the world is a mess, but it was never meant to be that way. The problem and consequences of sin are real and huge and ugly. What an astounding contrast to heaven that all makes earth. Take sin out of the equation and add God's permanent physical presence and what do you have? Indescribable!
2. In talking about the death of Jesus' friend Lazarus, Yancey says: 'Jesus knew, of course, that Lazarus was now whole and content, in every way better for having shuffled off this mortal coil. Martha and Mary knew as much too, theoretically. But unlike Jesus and unlike Lazarus, they had never heard the sounds of laughter from the other side of death.'
What a beautiful concept. One to hold onto as we farewell friends and family members who know and love Jesus. While we may be overwhelmed with grief, feeling loss and pain, they are being welcomed with open arms, their arrival is being celebrated and there is laughter and joy on the other side.
Anyway, 2 little (maybe huge really) thoughts to encourage you, stimulate your thinking today and perhaps, challenge your perspective on what we see while we await His glorious return.
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