Today’s lesson is about transformation or from Sol to Paul. (And no, Sol is spelled correctly).

This evening I was honored to play the Apostle Paul in our Lenten services. It was a three page, close to 10-minute monologue on how Paul was so blinded by the light and thought his righteous anger was just and how he was chosen to bring the light and judgment to those who blasphemed in Galilee. His ‘silly, self-righteous, educated, ineffectual’ self, was nothing more than irritation when faced with the Lord. How silly we seem, when we kick against the cattle prod, Jesus. This faith bite isn’t about Saul becoming Paul, but Sol, me, becoming Paul.

I was blessed to have prayers and the support of our senior pastor throughout this. I struggled with memorizing the script. I struggled with how to act. I struggled with being on stage for the first time in front of everyone in the church. But as I changed into the costume of Paul, an elder’s robe with a Pastor’s stole, I felt a change. Most of the nervousness went away. I wasn’t’ perfect, and got even better on the second go. But I was clothed in God’s Armor. I shared the holy message and hope I reached someone. I felt his presence, through the light shining through the stained glass, the smiles of people, and their warm wishes. I felt different.

“The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.” – Acts: 9-11

“But the Lord said to Ananias,“Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.” – Acts 9:15

So let’s put this into perspective. Saul, a Pharisee, who was bent on imprisoning and breathing murderous threats against the believers (blasphemers in his mind) was God’s chosen instrument. As we’ve said, God doesn’t choose the perfect to serve. He chooses the broken, the downtrodden the sinners. Because we are all sinners. I was able to share his word with many, and I hope, it changed them as it did me.

Don’t ever think that you are not worthy, that you are not good enough to be chosen by God. You have a place.

Are you ready for your Saul to Paul transformation? Are you ready to see that you are a Gift and have gifts to share with others?

I am ready (with the help of God).

#73of365 #FaithBites #FaithJourney