Chapter 1 III. Atonement and Miracles

In Chapter 1, Section III of A Course in Miracles, we explore the relationship between Atonement and miracles, and how they are connected to our spiritual journey. Jesus explains his role in the process of Atonement and how we are called to join in this work, using miracles as a way to correct errors and restore awareness of our true nature.

Jesus and the Process of Atonement

The passage begins by stating that Jesus is in charge of the process of Atonement. This means that he has undertaken the role of helping us undo errors and return to our original state of grace. When we perform a miracle, we are not only helping others, but also ourselves and Jesus. Jesus doesn’t need miracles for his own Atonement, but he is there to support us when we struggle to correct our own errors.

The goal of Atonement is to restore our awareness of who we truly are—children of God, free from error. Once we recognise our original state, we naturally become part of the Atonement process. This is the essence of Jesus’ “great crusade” to undo error, and we are called to listen to his guidance and take part in correcting mistakes, both in ourselves and in others.

Miracles: Our Role in Atonement

Jesus states that the ability to work miracles belongs to us, but we must be ready and willing to perform them when opportunities arise. Performing miracles helps us develop conviction in our ability, and that conviction comes through accomplishment.

Miracles are not grand gestures; rather, they are expressions of love that correct errors and help us recognise the truth. Miracles unite us with the Holy Spirit and with Jesus, contributing to the salvation of all creation. As we forgive and release others, we also free ourselves.

Asking for Guidance and Acting Without Judgement

One key point in this section is the importance of asking Jesus for guidance about which miracles to perform. By asking for direction, we avoid unnecessary effort and ensure we are acting in alignment with the greater plan of Atonement. The impersonal nature of miracles is important because it allows Jesus to guide their application. Under his direction, miracles lead to personal experiences of revelation.

This passage also reminds us that error cannot threaten truth. Only error is vulnerable, and truth remains untouched by mistakes. Jesus guides us to make the right choices by reminding us of our true nature:
“Spirit is in a state of grace forever. Your reality is only spirit. Therefore, you are in a state of grace forever.”

Perception, Behaviour, and the Golden Rule

Our perception plays a critical role in how we behave. As the passage explains, we respond to what we perceive, and this shapes our actions. The Golden Rule, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” is a guide for appropriate behaviour. However, to truly follow this rule, our perception of ourselves and others must be accurate. If we see ourselves as holy, we will extend that perception to others.

When we perceive the holiness in ourselves and others, we act accordingly. This shifts our behaviour away from judgment and correction based on ego, and instead, we act out of love and connection.

The Impersonal Nature of Miracles and the Power of Grace

Another significant point is that miracles arise from a mind that is ready to perform them. Even if the miracle worker is not consciously aware of it, the mind is connected to everyone, and miracles flow out to others. The impersonal nature of miracles stems from the fact that the Atonement is one—it unites all creations with God. This unity allows miracles to be expressions of love and grace.

Jesus reassures us that even if we are not asked to perform a specific miracle, its value is not lost. The miracle remains an expression of our own state of grace, but Jesus controls the action because he is fully aware of the larger plan. This ensures that the miracle reaches the people who can use it most effectively and extend it to others.

Atonement as a Shared Path to Truth

In this section, A Course in Miracles teaches us that Atonement is a shared responsibility. Jesus leads the way, but we are called to participate by performing miracles and correcting errors. Through miracles, we undo the false perceptions that keep us from recognising the truth of who we are: beings in a state of grace forever.

Miracles are not selective in their importance, nor are they bound by the laws of the world. Instead, they operate on a higher plane, restoring our awareness of reality and uniting us with the divine. As we become miracle workers, we strengthen the chain of Atonement, helping ourselves and others return to the awareness of love.