Frequently after Jesus performs a miracle he says, “your faith has saved you.” He seeks to deflect the thought that he is somehow or other “miracle Max” who goes around with a magic wand working wonders. Instead, he is cultivating the understanding that the action and presence of God bespeaks a partnership, a partnership of the divine and human. Yes, Jesus is God with us but the divine plan requires a partnership of the divine and human. The story of Immaculee illustrates that very powerfully. Certainly it was the grace of God that (eventually) brought her to the moment of forgiveness. But it was her availability to God in prayer that gave the opening for the mercy of God to pour into her heart.
