Legends, myths and legendary characters will always be discussed. Whether its Babe Ruth, Paul Bunyan or Frank Sinatra, common people can be mystified by figures who are larger than life. Although some feats may be embellished, those who were alive at the time of their prime wouldn’t put it past them to achieve the impossible.
As a result, people brought the sick into the streets and laid them on beds and mats so that at least Peter’s shadow might fall on some of them as he passed by, Acts 5:15.
However, sometimes a real life Clark Kent does the unexpected, turning into a super humanitarian. Such is the case of Peter, a fisherman turned minister. Fueled by the Holy Spirit, this once Jesus denier became transformed into a powerful healer. An eyewitness of Peter’s miracles, Luke a real life doctor was astonished by Peter’s healing power, extending to his own shadow. Drawing crowds similar to the days of Jesus, those who believed experienced restoration as soon as the shadow of Peter touched their body.
God did extraordinary miracles through Paul, so that even handkerchiefs and aprons that had touched him were taken to the sick, and their illnesses were cured and the evil spirits left them, Acts 19:11-12.
This phenomena continued through the apostle Paul. Like Peter, his past was nothing to be proud of, hunting down and executing Christians. Yet, this same Spirit, allowed Paul to turn over a new lease on life. Possessing strong leadership skills, Paul kept Jesus’ legacy of healing alive. While Jesus healed those who touched his cloak, those who reached out to Paul’s handkerchiefs experienced similar results. From a human and scientific perspective, these events make no sense. Nonetheless, when anointed by the Holy Spirit, even Peter’s shadow can and is used by bring believers into the family of God.
by Jay Mankus
