If an all-powerful being desired to reveal itself to a lesser, more finite group of people, how would he do so? There are a myriad of different ways to demonstrate power and strength. Typically, when I think of power I think of the ability over a subject. Such a case can be found in someone like the president or war leader. Certainly an act of domination would suffice to prove power. For example, my parents would often remind me, “I brought you into this world, I can take you out of it too.” There was no doubt in my mind concerning who had power over me at particular moments in life.
Think with me for a moment. Put yourself in a deified position – how would you prove your power to mankind? Would it be through world dominion? Perhaps even obtaining an undeniable amount of riches? What about forcefully subjecting mankind to grant your every wish? I believe God to have the best approach to the scenario. He revealed Himself through His Son and the miracles that followed (Heb. 1:1,2; John 14:9).
The gospel of John records only a small amount of Christ’s life and what He accomplished (John 20:30). However, this written account does a brilliant job of laying out the miracles that Christ performed. Listed below are just some of those miracles:
– Providing at the wedding (John 2:1-11)
– Reading of the Samaritan woman’s heart (John 4:7-26)
– Healing of the child (John 4:46-54)
– Healing of the sick man (John 5:1-17)
– Providing food for the thousands (John 6:10-14)
– Walking on Water and eliminating fear (John 6:16-21)
– Giving sight to the blind (John 9)
– Bringing life to the dead (John 11:1-16)
Which of those miracles were a selfish display of power? And which of those miracles failed to validate God’s power? Jesus perfectly balanced power and charity through the acts of His miracles. Of all the ways and opportunities that Christ could have shown absolute power, He chose love over self.
When I look at the miracles, I see God’s goodness. The climax of His revelation to man was done through the avenue of absolute selflessness. Sometimes, we can get so caught up in the physical aspect of miracles without recognizing or admiring what Jesus was really doing. From the miracles, I have gleaned these three lessons:
- No matter who I am or where I am, I can show love.
- Power requires responsibility, but God demands charity.
God is SO good in what He has done for me, and what He has done for others.
Tyler King