Choose a topic from Part 2B:

178. Miracles

1. The knowledge brought to men by prophecy, by the giftof tongues, and by the gift of words, needs to be authenticated asrevealed truth. This is done by the working of miracles. The giftof performing miracles is, therefore, a gratuitous gift andgrace.

2. A miracle is a wondrous fact or event, beyond the powerof any creature, and produced by almighty God. In the working of amiracle, God often uses a human being as his instrument;in this case, the human being has the gratuitous grace and gift ofmiracles. Now, it is possible that the human instrument of a divinework should not be himself a holy man. For the divine work ofmiracles is meant to prove truth, and even a sinner can teachtruth. But there are miracles which are wrought to prove theholiness of the person who is their instrument; in this case, to besure, the truth confirmed by the miracle and the holiness of theinstrument are one and the same thing.

"To think of oneself as nothing, and always to think well and highly of others is the best and most perfect wisdom. Wherefore, if you see another sin openly or commit a serious crime, do not consider yourself better, for you do not know how long you can remain in good estate. All men are frail, but you must admit that none is more frail than yourself. "
Thomas á Kempis

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"It is not God's will that we should abound in spiritual delights, but that in all things we should submit to his holy will."
Blessed Henry Suso

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"If you wish to learn and appreciate something worth while, then love to be unknown and considered as nothing. Truly to know and despise self is the best and most perfect counsel."
Thomas á Kempis

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