SAUL TO PAUL
Acts 9:1-22; Psalm 117; Mark 16:15–18
The apostle Paul is one of the best-known figures in the Bible. The letters he wrote thousands of years ago are still of paramount importance in theology, Christian spirituality, and praxis.
Before his conversion, he persecuted the early church, whom he considered to be dangerous heretics. He had many imprisoned and put to death; he was an eyewitness to the tragic and dreadful death of Stephen. As a matter of 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 became the turning point in his life. His name was changed from Saul to Paul. Beyond that, his conversion was true. His behavior changed, and he became a missionary for Christ.
A change of name in the Bible signifies a transformation or a new phase in life. Abram to Abraham, “exalted father” to “father of a multitude.” (Genesis 17:5). From Sarai to Sarah, both names mean princess, but the latter emphasizes her role as the mother of nations (Genesis 17:15). From Jacob to Israel, “he struggles with God, but the latter illustrates “the patriarch of God’s chosen people” (Genesis 32:28). From Simon to Peter, meaning “rock” (Matthew 16:18). Finally, from Saul to Paul, an apostle and missionary (Acts 13:9). They all lived according to their new names. We are children of God let’s live as Christians.
Beloved, we are redeemed in order to produce. God has called us so that we can call others. Paul became 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 the 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
