DISCUSSION: How would you define a miracle?
A good definition of a miracle is: something that cannot be explained by natural laws. It's an event when God intervenes in a way that is above and beyond the way the universe normally operates.
Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. Matthew 4:23
This is how Matthew describes the public ministry of Jesus. He taught them about life with God and he healed people. In the gospels we read that even Jesus' opponents admitted that he performed miraculous signs.
When Jesus came down from the mountainside, large crowds followed him. A man with leprosy came and knelt before him and said, "Lord, if you are willing, you can make me clean." Jesus reached out his and and touched the man. "I am willing," he said. "Be clean!" Immediately he was cleansed of his leprosy. Matthew 8:1-3
DISCUSSION: Discuss the significance of this miracle and the fact that Jesus "touched" the man with leprosy. Are there ways that Jesus moves in now to "touch" us in ways that others do not? Have you experienced his touch? Or maybe you just hope that is a real thing. How does that impact you personally?
Read John 11: 17-27
DISCUSSION: Discuss this story. What must Martha have been feeling? What is the significance of what Jesus said to her in verses 25-26? And what does that mean to us today?
Reflect
We believe that Jesus still works miracles today. But so many times the best gift he gives is himself. He moves in close.
What miracle to you need today?
How does it mean in your situation to have Jesus move in close?