I have preached for several ordination services and have always given the candidate being ordained, an extension cord.  I am sure this was not what they were expecting as an ordination gift.   When I read this passage from Acts where Peter heals Aeneas it takes me back to every ordination service that I have been to or been a part of.  When the candidate kneels and all ordained elders and ministers are asked to come forward and lay hands on the candidate while someone prays for the outpouring of God’s spirit and power on them.

In our scripture reading Peter doesn’t lay hands on Aeneas, but says “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you.  Rise and make your bed.”  Peter becomes a conduit through which the power of God flows through for the healing of this paralyzed man.  In response to this healing, many who were present turned to the Lord.

What an opportunity as ordained clergy and elders we have to be a conduit through which the power of God flows through.  What a joy it is to share in the healing ministry of Christ.

Now I am sure Peter was not surprised like the candidates were at their ordination when I gave them an extension cord.  However how now every time they look at that extension cord, they remember like Peter that it is God who heals and we are only a conduit through which God’s power flows.