The Relationship between Miracles and Human Action

Luke 8:53-55 - And they laughed at [Jesus}, knowing that she was dead. But taking her by the hand he called, saying, “Child, arise.” And her spirit returned, and she got up at once. And he directed that something should be given her to eat.

Miracles are fascinating and mysterious. Many people believe they are not possible or that there is always some natural explanation for what appears to be a miracle. Others believe miracles should be a regular experience for any person with enough of the right kind of faith. (Side question: If miracles were a regular experience, would they still be miraculous?) Some take this latter view to the extreme, denying any human responsibility whatever except faith alone, saying, “I trust in God to take care of me,” without lifting a finger to help themselves. Others say they believe in the possibility of miracles but are so afraid of the extreme view that they never seek them. I think the story of Jairus is an excellent case study on the proper balance of faith, action, and the miraculous work of Jesus.

Jairus was the leader of the synagogue. That made him one of the most influential people in town. Yet, his twelve year old daughter (and only child) was dying. He expressed both faith and action to see that situation changed. He humbled himself and honored Jesus by falling to his feet (Luke 8:41) and asking for Jesus’ help. After his daughter had died and all others had given up hope, including his servants and paid mourners, he accepted Jesus’ instructions to “not fear; only believe” (Luke 8:50). All he had at that point to go on was faith. He had made his request. The outcome was in Jesus’ hands. With Jesus’ word, she came back to life (Luke 8:54).

Yet, notice that once she experienced that miraculous resurrection, Jesus instructed Jairus to give her something to eat. (Luke 8:55) If he was capable of miraculously restoring life, could not Jesus, Master of Creation, miraculously have provided nutrition, too? I believe he could have, but he did not need to, because his creation already provided the basis for nutrition in agriculture. Once the miracle of restoring life was complete, human action was needed to sustain life.

I know God still works miracles today. I believe we should seek and believe for Jesus’ intervention in our lives, but that does not absolve us of responsibility for ourselves. Spiritual growth is about growing in faith and responsibility.