The Holy Man
(adapted from The Holy Shadow)

Long, long ago, there lived a Holy Man so good that the astonished angels came from heaven to see how one could be so godly. He simply went about his daily life radiating love as the star diffuses light and the flowers perfume without even being aware of it. Two words summed up his day: He gave, and he forgave. Yet these words never fell from his lips; they were expressed in his ready smile, his kindness, love, and good will.

The angels said to God, "Oh Lord, grant him the gift of miracles!"

God replied, "I consent; ask what he wishes."

"What do you desire then?" cried the angels.

"What can I wish for?" asked the Holy Man smiling. "That God give me His grace, with that should I not have everything?"

The angels insisted, "You must ask for a miracle, or one will be forced upon you."

"Very well," said the Holy Man, "that I may do a great deal of good without ever knowing it."

The angels were greatly perplexed. They took counsel together and resolved upon the following plan: Every time the Holy Man's shadow should fall behind him, or at either side, so that he could not see it, it should have the power to cure disease, soothe pain, and comfort sorrow.

And so it came to pass. When the Holy Man walked along, his shadow on the ground, on either side or behind him, made arid paths green, caused withered plants to bloom, gave clear water to dried-up brooks, fresh color to pale little children, and joy to unhappy mothers. The Holy Man simply went about his daily life pouring forth love as the star diffuses light and the flower perfume without ever being aware of it.

And the people respecting his humility followed him silently, never speaking about his miracles. Little by little, they came even to forget his name, and called him only, "The Holy Man."

from "Quiet Moments with God"
by Dr. Joseph Murphy