Like a compost pile, a garden or each dawn, many of the natural miracles in our daily lives are not caused by anything we do. As Martin Luther explains some of the petitions in the Lord’s Prayer, these things happen “indeed, without our prayer.” We are grateful observers and recipients of these blessings, but not their progenitors or creators.
As you and I try to find fullness in our lives, this truth finds its way into other matters:
- Every day we are graced by naturally occurring miracles or blessings—by God’s tangible providence.
- Our prayers probably don’t cause God to do anything not already in God’s mind.
- As thankful beneficiaries of God’s goodness, we have every reason to be generous.
- Our own lives may also be the evidence or substance of God’s blessings in the lives of others.
What may be most astounding is the quantity or quality of these naturally occurring processes or events in our lives. Moments of grace, forgiveness, benefits, favors, blessings or opportunities—God offers them to us over and over again. Their miraculous essence occurs regularly—with little or no effort on our part.
So I dig garbage into a mulch pile, and rich soil eventually develops. I engage in conversation with someone, and a friendship appears over time. I admit my faults and forgiveness is offered. Loved ones surprise me with their presence. I listen closely, and love grows stronger. My body and spirit are renewed as I sleep. In each case, my work is minimal, but the results are astounding.
Today your life will be enriched by gifts of God that come to you without your prayer. People around you will be blessed by you, graced and gifted—Indeed, without their prayers.
What to do? Praise God, and then pass along the miracles!
