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Tuesday, December 13, 2005
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MIRACLES — נסים
A miracle (nes or pele in
Hebrew) is an extraordinary event that cannot be explained logically, implying
God’s divine intervention and supernatural timing. The powers of nature, both
great and small, are set in motion outside of man’s control.
Israel’s first prime minister, David Ben Gurion, once said that one who
doesn’t believe in miracles isn’t a realist! The parting of the *Reed Sea, which
allowed the Israelites to escape their Egyptian pursuers, is a good example. Not
only did the children of Israel cross safely over dry land, the Lord caused the
waters to return, drowning the Egyptians. A miracle to one may prove a
misfortune to another.
Healing also reflects God’s mercy and power. Judaism accepts the Biblical
account of creation as evidence that even today, nothing is impossible for God.
It’s important to note that miracles rarely lead to true repentance, though they
certainly get one’s attention. Jesus saw this with the many miracles He
performed.
“Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, Who alone does wondrous things”
(Psalm 72:18)
* Reed Sea (Yam Suf in Hebrew) is the correct translation rather than Red
Sea.
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