Acts 9:1-22; Psalm 117; Mark 16:15-18
Apostle Paul is one of the most renowned figures in the Bible. The letters he wrote thousands of years ago remain paramount in theology, Christian spirituality, and praxis. Before his conversion, he persecuted the early Church, whom he considered dangerous heretics. He had many imprisoned and put to death; he was an eyewitness to the tragic and dreadful death of Stephen. In fact, he was a violent persecutor of Christians.
The first reading recounts the moment when the Lord Himself appeared to him on the road to Damascus. This encounter became the turning point in his life. His name was changed from Saul to Paul, and beyond that, his conversion was genuine. His behavior changed, and he became a missionary for Christ.
Beloved, we are redeemed to produce fruit. God has called us so that we can call others. Paul remained steadfast in this regard. Precisely because of this, the Gospel tells us that Jesus gave the Eleven authority and sent them out to preach.
As we go about our daily tasks, let us manifest a true Christian spirit and be soul winners.
LET US PRAY
O God, who taught the whole world through the preaching of the blessed Apostle Paul, draw us, we pray, nearer to you through the example of him whose conversion we celebrate today, and so make us witnesses to your truth in the world. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
