Possibility of Miracles . . .

Over the years I have heard stirring stories from people of impeccable sanity. Often these stories recount edge-of-the-cliff rescues.

• Some have felt strong hands lifting them from a fire or auto wreck.

• Others have sensed a presence, whom they felt to be Christ himself, appearing in a hospital room, bringing a fresh infusion of life and an unexpected recovery.

• I have heard of recently deceased family members showing up at the foot of someone's bed, often giving a warm and wonderful message of reassurance before disappearing.

None of these things has happened to me. But I accept much of what I have heard. Life is mostly meat and potatoes. The laws of cause and effect control things. Water freezes and boils at predictable temperatures. The sun rises and sets on schedule. But as citizens of a special kingdom, we know there is more. Occasional surprises breaking through remind us of that. And maybe that's why they happen.

Yet . . . I am politely incredulous of those who claim God spoke to them: "God told me to move to California" or "God's voice told me to start a ministry to the Tujungas." A few such reports are beautiful and acceptable. But individuals responding to an inner voice to which they've given a divine label have done many strange things and committed heinous crimes in God's name.

If God does have a private conversation with you, the appropriate thing is to ponder it secretly and personally. Going to others and claiming special orders from the Deity is not likely to be well received. If it involves others, you must allow its veracity and meaning to be discerned by allowing trusted Christians to sort it out and assess it.

I don't think we should sit in circles trying to make strange things happen. I am reluctant to believe God speaks to individuals. But we are told that our Lord is present. And we are told to ask for what we need.