Why does God allow certain tragedies? Why doesn’t He intervene to heal or save us when we pray so earnestly? Many people, even those of profound faith, grapple with reconciling suffering and tragedy with believing in an omniscient and omnipotent God. Why do some receive miracles while others continue to suffer? Fr. Spitzer offers insight into this complex issue in this EWTN interview.
Fr. Spitzer outlines two essential qualifications influencing whether a miracle will be granted. These are: 1) The removal of the cross must not hinder anyone’s salvation, and 2) Human freedom must be preserved.
The Cross and Salvation
The first qualification revolves around the concept that miracles must not obstruct the salvation of any soul. One might wonder how receiving a miracle could possibly interfere with one’s salvation. According to Church teachings and the wisdom of the Saints, suffering often plays a crucial role in leading us towards salvation.
Suffering—whether mental, physical, or emotional—can transform us in profound ways. It helps reshape our perspectives, diminish our attachment to sin, and deepen our reliance on God. For example, St. Paul’s own trials were integral to his spiritual growth and ultimate sanctity. He reflects on this in his letter to the Romans:
“. . . we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.” —Romans 5:3-5, RS
Seeing the Cross as an Opportunity
Many crosses we bear come with hidden opportunities for growth and salvation. For instance, a challenge faced in youth may later enable us to help someone else in a similar situation, benefiting both souls. Thus, a miracle would only be granted if it did not undermine the necessary role of suffering in salvation.
Preserving Human Freedom
The second qualification is that human freedom must be maintained. If God were to grant every request for a miracle, it would disrupt the natural order and undermine the laws of nature, leading to a chaotic world without consistent consequences for actions. Human freedom would be compromised in such a world, reducing us to mere puppets in a script controlled by divine intervention.
Without the stability of natural law and moral consequences, we would lose the ability to make genuine choices. Our freedom is essential for moral development and for our capacity to extend compassion and support to one another. Suffering often prompts acts of kindness and solidarity—doctors develop new treatments, friends provide comfort, and individuals make selfless sacrifices. These actions are crucial for fostering human connection and compassion.
The Role of Miracles
Despite these limitations, miracles do occur. Fr. Spitzer explains that miracles are granted in specific instances to show God’s compassion and power. They are bestowed in ways that respect the principles of salvation and freedom, ensuring they do not compromise the broader spiritual and moral framework.
Is God’s decision-making process regarding miracles fair? Absolutely. In His infinite wisdom, God understands what is just and what will best lead a soul to salvation. He dispenses miracles thoughtfully, allowing them to serve as beacons of hope and reminders of the possibilities with God while always maintaining the balance of salvation and human freedom.
