When the Fire Heard Me and the Plate Was Not Missing: Two Signs in the Path of the Disciple

 

1. The fire that looked back
While returning from work, rerouted by wildfires near the Florida Keys, I took the long Sound Road. From my left window, I saw smoke, blazing trees, and a helicopter dropping water—nature burning, hope dwindling.

I raised my eyes to heaven and prayed for rain. But then, faith stirred within me. I remembered the authority given to us through Jesus' name. So I lowered my window, stretched out my hand toward the fire, and declared with boldness:

"In the name of Jesus, the Son of the Most High, by His holy blood, I command you to stop and cease your damage."

A strange sensation came over me. It felt as if the fire recognized my voice—like it saw me and knew I had spoken with authority. As I drove away, I felt its gaze still lingering behind.

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2. The plate that did not run out at God’s table
On May 4, my birthday, my wife made me a flan. As I always do with any dessert, I cut the first piece and consecrated it to the Creator. I had only brought two paper plates to the table—enough for my wife and me, since the kids don’t eat flan.

I placed God’s portion in silence before an empty chair, like inviting Him to sit with me.

Then something odd happened. My wife served herself a plate and handed me another. But I had already used one. There should have been only one left.

Now there were two again.

I stared, stunned.
—“How is this possible?” I asked.
My wife was confused. But I understood.

Just like with the loaves and fishes, God had whispered:

“If you give Me the first, you will never lack what’s yours.”

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Final reflection
The elements listen, and the Spirit of God multiplies in silence. Both fire and plate became witnesses. I now walk this path knowing that when one speaks in the name of the Son, even nature listens.