The Miracle That Never Happened

DateLine (1/11/06 – Buies Creek, North Carolina)
Guest Contributor for Reference Point - Tripp Atkins

Last week, in Sago, West Virginia, the worst mining accident in 20 years occurred. Thirteen miners were caught in an underground explosion 11,000 feet down the shaft into the coal mine and about 300 feet below the surface.

In the aftermath of the explosion, a rescue effort was put into place to save the thirteen miners trapped inside. Deep holes had to be drilled to release the toxic gases in order to help the trapped miners and protect the rescuers descending the shafts. High-tech sound equipment was used to listen for any signs of life, while others rushed to clear the shaft so they could get to the trapped men. All the while, the governor of West Virginia proclaimed that he “believed in miracles.”

Days into the rescue operation, a report was broadcast, “12 Alive! 12 Alive!” And the bells of Sago Baptist Church rang out. This sent the families of the trapped miners who were praying at the church into a three-hour, joyous frenzy, praising God, singing hymns, and hugging one another. They had received a miracle.

Twelve of the miners lost their lives. The sole survivor is unconscious and the extent of his injuries are currently unknown. The family members were left in a state of shock, sadness and despair. And the more time that passed after the truth was made known feelings of anger and rage emerged. Anger toward International Coal Group, owners of the mine, Ben Hatfield, the CEO of the mine, and towards God for taking their loved ones and miracle away.

While watching the news I heard one of the lost miner’s family members say, “their miracle had been taken away” from them.

We all deal with loss in our lives. Some even more tragic than the Sago mine disaster. During these times we should turn to God, rather than away from God. God wants us to bring our problems and feelings to Him. What we have to do is outlined in scripture: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding.” (Proverbs 3: 5). In tough times, humans are filled with all kinds of emotions like the miner’s families. We get mad at people and mad at God.

While we don’t always know what, why or when – God does, and we can take comfort in God’s word, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

When we feel like we have lost everything – God remains – and I cannot think of a better foundation to build on. I don’t think the miracle never happened. Another team of miners coming down the shaft behind those trapped were able to escape, and one of the thirteen trapped miners made it out alive. Only God knows what he has in store for those saved.