THE CONVERSION OF SAINT PAUL THE APOSTLE (FEAST)

Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?

Bam! In an instant, Paul’s life is completely turned upside down. Just moments before, he had been bent on snuffing out the followers of Jesus. But now he is set on a path that will make him one of history’s greatest evangelists. This sounds almost too good to be true!

Paul’s experience may lead us to think that unless we experience a dramatic, earth-shattering event like his, we really haven’t experienced conversion. But that’s not usually the case. So let’s take a look at what conversion is so that we can get a better understanding of our own experience of the Lord.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church calls conversion “the movement of return to God” (1490). It’s a decision to turn away from sin, turn toward Jesus, and embrace him as Savior and Lord. Like Paul’s experience on the Damascus road, conversion is a response to God’s revelation. It’s a decision to accept his invitation to “come and see” who Jesus is and what he can do in us (John 1:46).

Besides the spectacular immediate conversions like Paul’s, some of us experience the slow buildup of many small conversions. These “mini” conversions happen as God gradually opens our eyes to his goodness and to our need for salvation. Perhaps a homily at Mass helps us to see God’s truth in a new way. Or the events of life show us how deeply we need Jesus—and how merciful he is. Or perhaps we are simply led to a deeper love for God and rejection of sin as our lives unfold. This may not be as dramatic as Paul’s conversion, but all the ingredients are still there!

Take some time today to review how God has drawn you to himself. Look back over your life and see all the reasons you have to be thankful for his grace in redeeming you and opening heaven to you. Can you picture what your life would be like if you hadn’t tried to follow the Lord? Then praise him for his mercy, his patience, and his love in calling you to his side!

“Thank you, Father, for sending your Son to rescue me from sin! Help me to live for you today.”

Psalm 117:1-2
Mark 16:15-18
Acts 22:3-16

WORD AMONG US