The Shadow of the Christian: Charity as Reflected Light

When the sick were brought to the streets of Jerusalem, they sought even the shadow of Peter, believing healing would come through his passing. This remarkable scene illustrates a profound truth: the miracles of Christ and His apostles were chiefly miracles of healing. Though that miraculous power has been withdrawn, the same compassionate object is accomplished through the prayerful use of natural means.

Charity may aptly be called the Christian's shadow. A shadow reflects the substance casting it—and Christian charity reflects a godly disposition. As a shadow represents the form and outline of its substance, charity portrays the figure of a child of God. A shadow moves with the substance it represents, attending every step and posture; likewise, charity accommodates itself with equal vigour to every circumstance—liberal in prosperity, considerate in adversity, humble in joy, cheerful in affliction.

Yet a shadow requires a light stronger than the substance itself. Where does the believer find this illuminating power? Not within the human heart, for Scripture declares "the heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked." Evil thoughts and adulteries spring from the same fountain as kindness. Nor shall we find it in worldly sources—in selfishness, ambition, or the blandishments of human admiration.

The light that casts the shadow of Christian charity must come from the face of Adonai Himself. Only divine illumination can produce a shadow worthy of healing the afflicted.