“And he did not do many miracles there because of their lack of faith (Matt 13:58).”

We have much in common with Jesus’s hometown community. Perhaps we, too, do not see the Spirit’s mighty power perform because deep down we don’t believe He can.

True belief feels illogical and outlandish. That God could work miracles amidst normalcy? Even amongst other Christians we are often timid at best to admit we believe the Divine may choose to heal, mend, multiply or make happen whatever miracle it is we implore. Instead of seizing the moment for a sick spouse, fractured marriage or co-worker in the grips of depression, we choose safety. “I’ll pray for you, “ we offer from the comfort of some future place. Hear me say, that is not bad, but I wonder if it’s simply an alternative to the vulnerability of inviting the Spirit into a moment, laying our beliefs on the line, and asking that He show up. We are fine to wonder if He will, but we must always remember that He can.

Author Ann Voskamp notes, “For all it’s supposed sophistication, it’s cynicism that’s simplistic. In a fallen world, how profound is it to see what’s broken?”

Let us lay our hopes on the line in the fullness of belief, knowing that the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength (1 cor 1:25).

And when we are struggling to do so, we will together echo the plea of a desperate father in Matthew’s gospel, “Lord, I believe; help my unbelief!” (Mark 9:24)

Commit to professing the Spirit’s presence and goodness out loud today, even if only to yourself. Do not be discouraged by doubt or overcome with feelings that come and go. Belief is so much more deeper than feelings.