We often think about the big miracles of Jesus. We remember Him walking on water, feeding thousands with a few loaves, and even raising the dead. But tucked away in the Gospel of Matthew is a small miracle that is easy to miss. It is strange, almost humorous, yet filled with meaning.

The story takes place in Capernaum. Some tax collectors approach Peter and ask if Jesus pays the temple tax. Without thinking too much, Peter replies that He does. But as Peter goes back to the house, he probably wonders how they are going to come up with the money. Before Peter can say anything, Jesus speaks first. He already knows the question and the need.

Jesus explains that, as the Son of God, He does not actually owe a tax for His Father’s house. Still, He chooses humility. Rather than making a point about His rights, He makes a point about His mission. Then He gives Peter instructions that sound almost unbelievable. He tells him to go to the lake, cast a line, and open the mouth of the first fish he catches. Inside will be a coin, exactly enough to cover the tax for both of them. And that is exactly what happens.

At first glance this might feel like a small, odd story. But it teaches us three powerful lessons.

First, Jesus cares about the details. The temple tax was not a large sum, but it was enough to cause concern. Jesus shows us that nothing in our lives is too small for Him. If He can place a coin in a fish’s mouth at the exact moment Peter casts his line, then He can provide for your daily needs too.

Second, it teaches humility. Jesus had every right to refuse payment. But instead of insisting on His rights, He chose to pay so there would be no unnecessary offense. He cared more about removing barriers to His mission than proving a point. That is a challenge for us. Sometimes the most powerful witness is not in being right, but in choosing love and humility.

Finally, this story reveals His authority. With a quiet miracle, Jesus shows that all of creation listens to Him. The fish, the timing, the coin — nothing is random. Everything bends to His will.

This unusual miracle reminds us that God provides in ways we do not expect. Sometimes He answers through ordinary means, other times in ways that make no sense to us at all. Our role is not to predict how He will provide but to trust that He will.

So the next time you face a need, remember Peter and the coin in the fish’s mouth. God sees both the big and the small. He may provide in ways that surprise you, but His faithfulness never changes.

When you’re not sure how to pray, A.C.T.S. gives you a simple path to follow: Adore, Confess, Thank, and Ask.

In Jesus name, Amen

“Amazing Grace” by Chris Tomlin

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