The Greater Miracle

In Luke chapter 10, Jesus sends out 72 people, 2x2, to go through villages and to proclaim the kingdom of God. He gave them power and authority over serpents, scorpions, and the enemy. A few verses later, Luke says they returned "with joy, saying, 'Lord, even the demons are subject to us in your name!'" Jesus replies, "He has given them authority" and then says, "Nevertheless, do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."

And friends, that right there is a lesson for us. The greater miracle is not that Jesus works mightily through people by His Holy Spirit, but that we are even saved.

The greater miracle is not the authority over the evil one, but that we were dead in our sins, and God made us alive together with Christ. Whatever reason we have for rejoicing, let us always rejoice in the greater miracle - that we are saved.

Did God use you in a powerful way in your evangelism? Praise God! But rejoice not in your works, but in that your Name is even written in heaven.

Do you see ministerial success in your life as you minister to others? Praise God! Nevertheless, do not forget the greater miracle is that you are saved.

Are you not seeing any fruit in your attempts to minister to others? That's okay. Still rejoice in Jesus for saving you!

This reality keeps us grounded in humility, and keeps God in His rightful place in our hearts - exalted as a glorious Saviour.

When we feel like we have reason to boast in ourselves and in our own works, God reminds us of the miracle of being saved - that we were once dead but are now alive only by His grace. And when we feel like we have reason to be downcast, we have a reason to rejoice - our names are written in heaven!

Friend, whatever happens this week, take a moment to thank God that He saved you, and rejoice in the goodness of Jesus.

~ Pastor Alexander