Reflections on Miracles and Healing

Every day, we encounter moments that can only be described as miraculous. When I started my journey in medicine, I was struck by the intricate workings of the human body. To me, it was not just science—it was a testament to divine miracles.

I found that many of my peers in medicine shared this sentiment. Faith, the human spirit, and the pursuit of scientific knowledge—these elements can coexist. Reliable technology empowers doctors to save lives, while faith reinforces the belief in the value of each individual.

Miracles, however, come with their own unpredictability. Sometimes, we receive the miracles we wish for, but not always what we pray for.

Take, for example, Hannah from the 12th century. Her wish for a child was granted because God foresaw that her son, Shmuel (or Samuel), would rise to prominence as a great prophet. The name “Shmuel” means “God hears”—a fitting moniker as it symbolizes Hannah’s answered prayer.

In my personal life, we yearned for a third child and, indeed, God blessed us. While my wife was expecting, during a Rosh Hashanah service, I felt a significant moment when I saw a man in front of me holding a baby. I asked, “What’s his name?” It was “Shmuel.” Later, my daughter excitedly mentioned a character named Samuel from a show she liked. We decided to name our newborn son after that.

But then Samuel was born deaf, which felt like a cruel twist of fate. I prayed once more, and to my amazement, just a day later, after a simple ear cleaning, he responded, smiled, and passed his hearing test before we left the hospital.

Though his early years were plagued by ear infections, reminding me that God’s miracles can be delicate, he grew into a compassionate and intelligent young man. It became clear to me that God has a purpose for him in this world.

Both of my parents are over a century old, thanks to the relentless efforts of their doctors, who didn’t give up during tough times, like when my father faced a fractured femoral neck.

My father had emergency surgery at 98, yet his spirit carried him to age 102—even after being on a ventilator. I know all this is due to his unwavering love for my mother and the medical staff who believe that every life holds immense value. He often jokes that the key to longevity is to dodge punches life throws your way.

Recently, I met a woman with a necklace that bore the word “milagros,” meaning miracle in Spanish. She recounted a harrowing moment before her birth, where she nearly suffocated. A nun in the room had handed her mother that very necklace, claiming it would ensure the baby’s safety if her mother promised to keep it close. Miraculously, the baby was born healthy, yet years later, she faced a benign brain tumor requiring numerous surgeries. Each time, she held that pendant, finding strength in its presence.

Listening to her, I thought about how we are all held in God’s hands. This awareness can ground both doctors and patients, fostering humility and, ultimately, kindness and healing.