Post #3: Who is your credible witness?

April 4, 2021

Dear Reader,

Easter blessings to all. 

Today, we are offered a reality beyond the colored eggs and chocolate bunnies to the wonder and awe present before us:  Jesus, who, through His Cross and Resurrection, transformed us back into lovely realities as seen through the Father’s eyes.

Today, I remember those before me who gave credible witness to this event. They planted a seed within my soul by their example, which grace touched as the gift of faith.  Of course, my parents were and are premiere witnesses, engaging models of faith, but today I happened to think about and consider another witness who shows what is possible when we encounter the risen Lord, Jesus Christ.

St. Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, was a Jew and citizen of Rome who, before his conversion, went by his given name Saul.

Saul had a zealous Jewish faith; unfortunately, though, he worked to persecute Christians. He did not know Jesus when he walked this earth but had a personal encounter with the risen Lord that triggered a dramatic, almost inconceivable change within him.  His personality, views, and beliefs instantly turned from fanatical hatred expressed in murderous ways to a loving, outspoken proponent of Jesus Christ.

One has to wonder, how did this change occur? 

The psychology of man seems to revolt against instantaneous change.  Think about change; generally, it is only through much thought, effort, education, and power that change happens.  Even then, most go back to their old ways pretty quickly. This change within Saul was something extraordinary and permanent.  The presence and power of Christ made it possible.  St. Paul was an extraordinary witness to the truth of Christ.

Some final thoughts:  Who is your credible witness?  What about their life helped you focus on the truth?  If you are unfamiliar with St Paul, see his conversion story found in Acts, Chapter 9.