Everyday Miracles

"On this mountain he will destroy the veil that veils all peoples, The web that is woven over all nations; he will destroy death forever." Is 25 7-8

Isaiah promises us that someday God will unite all peoples, that nations now at war, or who hate one another culturally or tribally will have the veil that separates them lifted. It is a wonderful and powerful promise, one that seems too good to be true.

Nevertheless, most of us have known healing in our lives that we could never have expected. Whether it was a long and painful separation from a parent, sibling or friend, something or someone intervened and made that which seemed beyond imagination happen. St Monica followed her son from North Africa to Italy all the while praying for him and hoping that God would move St Augustine's heart and help him to turn from his sinful life. Monica could not be sure when or if God's grace would change her son's lifestyle, but her faith would not let her stop trying and eventually she got her miracle.

For many Catholics the election of Pope Francis has felt like a miracle. The Pope was largely unknown when he was chosen by the college of Cardinals to lead the church, but his early months in office have been met with surprise, delight and new hope. Is this the man who will help God's people lift the veil that separates them one from another? Is there a possibility that centuries old divisions between East and West might actually be bridged? Will women be invited to use their gifts at the highest levels of church life and governance? While we do not know the answer to any of these questions, our faith demands that, like St Monica, we keep praying that God's will be done within and around us.

Today, let yourself dream God's dream of unity for and among all people.

What have been the biggest miracles in your life?