St. Paul was the worst sinner in the world (1 Tm 1:15), "an extreme case" (1 Tm 1:16). He was "a blasphemer, a persecutor, a man filled with arrogance" (1 Tm 1:13). Paul is "an example to those who would later have faith" in Jesus (1 Tm 1:16). Because the Lord changed Paul, He can change anybody — even your spouse, child, boss, enemy — even you! No matter how many abortions have been committed, how many children abused, how many millions left to starve, the Lord can change anything by changing anybody.
Almost everyone believes in the power of the world, the flesh, and the devil to pervert the human person. Nevertheless, as great as this power is, it is finite. God's power to convert the human person is infinite. He will not take away our free will, but the power of Jesus' death and Resurrection is so awesome as to keep us from putting too much emphasis on our rebellious will (see 1 Jn 4:4).
Paul's conversion is a sign of hope. We never have to give up on ourselves or on the most hardened sinners. Jesus' grace is sufficient (2 Cor 12:9). There is no chaining His Word (2 Tm 2:9). There is nothing impossible for Him (Lk 1:37). Jesus' love never fails (1 Cor 13:8).
Be hopeful. Jesus saves.
| PRAYER: | Father, may I expect Your mercy to triumph over judgment (Jas 2:13). |
| PROMISE: | "Each man speaks from his heart's abundance." –Lk 6:45 |
| PRAISE: | St. Cyprian was condemned to death for his faith in Jesus. To the decree, "It is decided that Thascius Cyprian should die by the sword," Cyprian responded with "Thanks be to God!" |
Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:
· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College