14th Sept 2010

Acts 12:1-19 – Peter's Miraculous Escape From Prison

• “5 thoughts on prayer”
• Here is a story that has some many facets I could probably think about it for a couple of weeks.
• For now – here are 5 things it teaches me about miraculous prayer:
1. Prayer that leads to miracles is intense not casual
2. Prayer that leads to miracles in ongoing, it is not a one off.
3. Prayer that leads to miracles feels like relationship; not wishful thinking.
4. Prayer that leads to miracles is specific not vague.
5. Prayer that leads to miracles is communal and agreed upon.
• How much real faith was in the room?
• I doubt there was more than a mustard seed’s worth.
• Why was their first reaction to think it was Peter’s guardian angel?
• Well this possibly helps us understand their state of mind. It may be that they were afraid but not sure exactly what of.
• Jewish teaching has speculated that guardian angels of the loyal, can see things that those they guard cannot. They say that this is why someone can be terrified but they don’t know why; it’s because their guardian angel can see the threat.
• I doubt that this is true but maybe this gives us a possible context and understanding of what was going on in the group.
• They were afraid but they prayed. The reality of their situation was incredibly real to them and because of this they did not pray the casual prayers that we might in response to a facebook or email request.
• No. There was concentrated, continuing, connected and clear prayer with a strong sense of community agreement. These things it seems made up for their lack of expectation and small faith.
• Praying today for a miracle!