In this day and age we use the word miracle to describe a whole range of wonders, from the gains of science and technology to the awe-inspiring processes of nature, from the resurgence of belief in angels to our utter amazement at our children's growth and development. Recently the word miraculous has been used in advertisements for items as diverse as garage-door openers and uplifting lingerie. Presbyterians believe God works in both natural and supernatural ways. There is also renewed interest in spirituality and in the mysteries of existence. When both scientific advance and fascination with mystery are alive and well, it is right to stop and think about what we mean when we use the word miracle , to reflect on Scripture and tradition, and to ask whether there is a uniquely Presbyterian way of thinking about the miraculous.
W e do well to begin with the Bible.
Clearly the Scriptures are full of stories thatportray God as active in human history, as intimately involved with the people of God, as displaying providential power in ordinary and extraordinary ways. The God of creation made the world and commands the forces of nature. The God of Abraham and Sarah, of Isaac and Rebekah, guided and talked with our ancestors and answered their prayers in surprising and even incredible ways. The God of Moses appeared in a burning bush, in fire and smoke, parted the waters, and provided manna and quail and refreshment for wilderness wanderers. The God of the prophets, through them, spoke words of comfort and challenge, and at times demonstrated mighty power.