In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus sent out his Disciples (Mark 6) and they were instructed to teach, heal, and cast out unclean spirits. Apparently, they were reasonably successful at the task, because when they return, there are crowds of people all around them. There are so many people, and they are so persistent, that Mark’s Gospel indicates they didn’t even have space or time to eat. Our Scripture passage for this coming Sunday (Mark 6:30-34, 53-56) describes how Jesus attempted to retreat to a quiet place where they could rest and relax. The crowds, however, saw where they were going, recognized who they were, and got there first. More healings and miraculous signs occurred.
So what do you think? Do miracles still happen? Are people sick because of something bad that they have done? Are people healed because they faith that God will heal them? If that’s true, then are the people who don’t get well guilty due to a lack of faith? What does it mean for something to be labeled as a miracle? What about people who are born with physical or mental disabilities? Are they lacking in faith? Are they being punished? Should we pray for their healing? What if their condition doesn’t improve? I don’t ask all of these rhetorical questions for fun..I’m honestly wondering.
This past weekend, I had the opportunity to experience the play “Rumpelstiltskin” by Flutter Productions. Linda and Kevin Carpenter from our congregation were both part of the cast. Flutter Productions is a program of BlackHills Works, and they say that their purpose is “Creating all-ability productions that enable performers to soar!” The play was great. The story was beautiful. Some of the members of the cast are deaf or hard of hearing. Some have obvious physical disabilities, while others have mental disabilities, or Down Syndrome.
The cast told a beautiful story. The production was encouraging and thought provoking. Should I pray for these people who don’t have bodies or minds that function or process information like mine? Or, should I pause to learn what I can from the beauty and diversity of all of God’s children? I’m certain that I, myself, need God’s healing touch.
I will pray for a miracle, and pray for eyes to see it when it comes.
Blessings to you all,
Pastor Adam
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