There is a story about a man who is so good that the angels ask God to give this kind man the gift of miracles. God wisely tells them to ask this sweetheart if that is what he would wish. So the angels visit this good man and offer him first the gift of healing by hands, then the gift of conversion of souls, and lastly the gift of virtue. The gentle soul refuses them all. The angels insist that he choose a gift or they will choose one for him. He replies, ”I ask that I may do a great deal of good without ever knowing it.” The story ends this way.The angels were perplexed. They took counsel and resolved upon the following plan. Every time the saint’s shadow fell behind him it would have the power to cure disease, soothe pain, and comfort sorrow. As he walked, behind him his shadow made arid paths green, caused withered plants to bloom, gave clear water to dried-up brooks, fresh color to pale children, and joy to unhappy men and women. The saint simply went about his daily life diffusing virtue as the stars diffuse light and the flowers scent, without ever being aware of it. The people respecting his humility follower him silently, never speaking to him about his miracles. Soon they even forgot his name and called him “the Holy Shadow.”
It may be comforting to think of yourself as someone who may be of help in ways that we don’t even realize. Indeed, we are called upon to carry crosses that we do not want or ask for. The sick parents, the job loss, our child’s addiction, the divorce, the depression, unwanted crosses of all kinds. We get angry with God and frustrated. Often we feel forced into situations we never planned for. However, after a time of carrying this cross with Jesus, we move to understanding and from understanding to love, and from love to our salvation. Could this be our calling?
We are invited to pray for many people. Remember, praying for a person who you do not know is an example of being a holy shadow.
God prays for us as we reflect: “Because you are my help, I will sing in the shadow of your wings.” (Psalm 63:7).
Lord, I pray for all my Sonshine friends who do many wonderful things for their neighbors to bring them healing, forgiveness and peace. Wherever we walk, may our shadows be the grace that brings hope to those whose hearts and souls are in need of God’s healing touch.
