Miracles Week 1: Embracing the Thin Places
In our new sermon series, “Miracles,” we delve into the miraculous works of God as depicted in the Bible, starting with the well-known story of Exodus 3:1-6—the burning bush. This narrative not only sets the tone for understanding miracles but also challenges us to recognize the “thin places” in our lives where heaven and earth converge.
The Importance of Belief in Miracles
In today’s world, belief in miracles is often questioned, even within some Christian circles. This skepticism stems not from the biblical accounts themselves but from a lack of personal experience with the divine. Many people, including Christians, struggle to believe in miracles because they haven’t witnessed them firsthand. This perspective shifts the foundation of belief from the biblical truth to personal experience, leading to a secular outlook that prioritizes individual perception over divine action.
The Secular Age and Moralistic Therapeutic Deism
We live in what Charles Taylor describes as a secular age, not due to atheism but because believers often resist the idea of divine intervention. This has given rise to what sociologist Christian Smith calls “moralistic therapeutic deism,” a belief system where:
- Moralistic: God wants us to be good people.
- Therapeutic: Religion should make us feel better.
- Deism: God exists but does not intervene in our lives.
While these elements resonate with some Christian teachings, they fall short of recognizing God’s active presence and intervention in our lives.
The Burning Bush: A Thin Place
Exodus 3 introduces us to Moses’ encounter with God through the burning bush. This moment is pivotal as it illustrates a “thin place,” a space where the divine breaks through into the mundane. Moses, then a shepherd in Midian, encounters God in a bush that burns but is not consumed. This symbolizes God’s people enduring trials without being destroyed, thanks to divine presence.
Key Lessons from the Burning Bush
- Divine Presence: The burning bush represents God’s presence with His people during trials, ensuring they are not consumed by their hardships.
- Divine Action: Just as God intervened to deliver the Israelites, He desires to act in our lives today.
- Invitation to Destiny: God called Moses into his destiny, transforming him from a shepherd to a leader of His people.
Embracing Thin Places in Our Lives
The concept of “thin places” teaches us that wherever we are—especially in times of hardship—can become a space for divine encounter if we turn our focus to God. These moments invite us to experience God’s transformative presence and to participate in His work by creating thin places for others.
Conclusion
As we explore the miracles of the Bible, we are reminded of God’s unchanging nature and His desire to be actively involved in our lives. By recognizing and embracing the thin places, we open ourselves to divine interaction and the miraculous. Let us be encouraged to seek God earnestly, allowing Him to lead us through our challenges and into His abundant promises.