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Churches can get stuck in old ways of being and doing. Which is odd for a community that is devoted to following Jesus, a miracle-maker! It makes you wonder, are miracles a thing of the past? Or can you expect to have miracle sightings today? I want to share with you 3 ways your church can see a miracle.
Myths About Miracles
But first, let me dispel a common myth. Miracle sightings are not one-time events. Instead, they arise as you see with fresh eyes and new perspectives. That’s because miracles are not manufactured but instead, realized.
Miracles emerge unexpectedly from an atmosphere of openness, vulnerability, and trust. When you discern these sacred moments, they serve as powerful catalysts for profound change in your church community. In fact, miracle sightings have the power to turn the momentum of you church in an entirely different direction.
The concept of miracle sightings has existed for centuries, but what does it look like today? Let’s take a closer look.
Three Ways To See A Miracle
1) Look for Miracles in Everyday Life
Miracle sightings can be cultivated in a variety of ways. One way is by nurturing gratitude, noticing the small moments of beauty and joy that fill your life. Practice receptivity and be open to the unknown. Ask for God’s help to see life with new eyes.
2) Note the Small Changes that Lead to Big Miracles
I take great pleasure in guiding the growth of Creating a Culture of Renewal® as I am genuinely delighted to witness the miraculous transformations that unfold in the lives of our participants. My favorite tool is the “Culture Shifting Matrix.” This document enables church leaders to track how their small changes lead to big miracles.
For instance, as Patricia grew more confident in her ability to handle conflict, she stopped avoiding tough conversations. Instead, she approached two church members who had complaints. As she listened to them, really listened to them, she heard the hurt underneath, and was able to acknowledge their deep feelings. Patricia couldn’t change the past, but by being fully present with these two now, she changed the future. As they felt heard, they turned from adversaries into allies. Both became her staunch supporters, even contributing the final $40,000 needed to pay off the mortgage. One small change led to a very big miracle.
Small changes can lead to big miracles. In a world where change can often feel incredibly overwhelming, this idea is a reminder that you have the power to create something different. You don’t have to wait on God for these miraculous moments – God has already provided them for you.
3) Dream Up a Miracle
Jesus’ big dream, “Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is I heaven,” is the subject of my book, “Dream Like Jesus.” To dream like Jesus® means to envision miracles and then work towards them.
Do your dreams revolve around wiping out hunger in your community? Or creating safe spaces for targeted minorities? Or reducing the pain of gun violence? Or simply involving more of your congregants in your church’s mission? Any one of these could be considered a miracle.
Just like small changes can lead to big miracles, small ideas can lead to big solutions. Dare to create a church/community partnership that dreams up solutions and strategies for human suffering. God will be with you. If you want to see a miracle, get in the business of being a miracle.
When it comes to three ways to see a miracle, develop the trust that God is with you, and is even more interested than you are in bringing about moments of deep healing.
Next Steps
I’ve shared with you 3 ways to see a miracle. Now, as you continue to navigate your way toward spiritual and communal renewal, I invite each one of you to join me in an upcoming seminar, “How Christian Ministries are Achieving Success: An Introduction to Creating a Culture of Renewal®.” It will equip you with strategies to foster an environment that nurtures miracle-making. Let us embark on this journey together, exploring how we can create spaces for God’s transformative power to work in and through us.
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