My dear brothers and sisters, on this Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, we are invited to reflect on the life-changing experience of the great apostle, whose radical transformation from a zealous persecutor to a passionate apostle, priest and evangelist is a powerful reminder of the boundless mercies of God.
We hear in today's readings how Saul of Tarsus, as he was known before his conversion, was a stalwart defender of the Jewish faith, and as a manifestation of that – a fierce opponent of the early Christian community. However, after his dramatic encounter with the Risen Lord on the road to Damascus, everything changed. The light which he experienced from heaven glowing all around him, was so powerful that it blinded him instantly. Later, in Damascus, Ananias laid hands on him, and Saul's eyes were opened to the truth of Jesus Christ. From that moment on, he was consumed by a new passion for the Gospel, spreading the good news of salvation to all nations and the truth of who the Risen Lord actually is and what he accomplished among us.
As we consider the elements of Paul's conversion, we may find inspiration for our own lifelong conversion to become more holy. Let us reflect on three key aspects of his journey:
Firstly, Paul was radically willing to let go of his old self only after encountering the Risen Christ in such a powerful way. His conversion was not a gentle, incremental process, but rather a jolting experience that shook him to his core out of his complacency. He was forced to confront the limits of his own knowledge and power, and to surrender his attachment to the old way of thinking. As we navigate our own spiritual journeys, may we be willing to let go of our pride and attachment, embracing the humility and openness that will guide us to deeper conversion. We all need to let go of the mind of the world, and put on the mind of Christ, as Paul would later counsel us to do (Philippians 2:5).
Secondly, Paul's conversion was not a solo effort, but a collaborative process with others. Ananias and other companions played a crucial role in his healing and ministry. Paul recognized his own limitations and acknowledged his dependence on others, including the apostolic community and the prayers of those who supported him. May we also recognize the importance of community and support in our own spiritual growth, seeking out mentors, friends, and prayer partners who can help us deepen our relationship with God. Most of all, let us seek out the priest in the confessional, where heavenly mercy is continually offered to us.
Lastly, Paul's conversion was marked by a deep sense of purpose and commission. The Lord called him to be a witness to the Gentiles and to carry his name before kings. This sense of mission and purpose is also a hallmark of our own Christian vocation. The entire Church is commissioned with the work of evangelization. That’s all of us Catholics, and a continual commitment to conversion will make us more aware of this.
This is the gift of being a bearer of hope and light in a world often shrouded in darkness. As we reflect on Paul's conversion, may we be inspired to share our own testimonies, bearing witness to the transformative power of God in our lives and let’s not be afraid, for fear is of the devil and not of God.
Our Blessed Mother overcame the fear of the world through her love for God. She was a fearless warrior for the Lord as was Saint Paul. May we also be, through him who strengthens us. We, with Paul have come to recognize that his name, is Jesus, and may he be praised forever. Amen.
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