As I child, I remember hearing the Old Testament story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego. Despite threats from King Nebuchadnezzar, these 3 men were willing to face death rather than break the first commandment, Daniel 3:17. While in a fiery furnace, a 4th figure appeared, resembling the son of God, Daniel 3:24-25. However, until today, I was not aware of the modern miracle of Miner 34.
On Thursday, August 5th, 2010, a mining accident in Copiapo, Chile, trapped 33 miners nearly a half mile beneath the surface of their San Jose mine. Despite the initial cave in, all 33 men survived 69 days in darkness, banding together as a close knit community. During this ordeal, each man was given a task that they were responsible for until their rescue. Jose Henriquez was delegated the man of prayer, the only Christian miner. Gathering around a pole, Jose introduced his co-workers to Miner 34, praying to the Living God.
Although not accepted by everyone, Jose’s words pierced the hearts of several men on the verge of death. When a drill reached their location 17 days later, food, water and Bibles were dropped into their small living quarters. Once Jose began to quote God’s words to his fellow miners, a revival broke out 2,400 feet under the earth’s surface. Thirty two men entered this mine without plans for eternity on August 5th. On October 10th, when these men were extracted from this mine, 22 men were reborn, dedicating their lives to the Lord Jesus Christ, Romans 10:9-10. Like Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, these 33 miners were visited by Miner 34 until their rescue was complete.
Please share any other miracles you’ve experienced, heard or seen with your own eyes.
by Jay Mankus
