Saul, who later became Paul was somewhat of a hero to the Pharisees. His plan was to keep the Christians out of the kingdom. "To keep the kingdom pure". He marched through the countryside demanding that backslidden Jews salute the flag of the motherland or forever leave their families behind.
Many believers had fled Jerusalem to seek refuge in other cities. Saul went as far as Damascus, about 150 miles from Jerusalem to track them down.
However, on the road there the Lord had another plan. Saul heard His voice. For three days Saul was blind. During that time he had an opportunity to search his own soul.
Acts 9:15 But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! I have chosen Saul for an important work. He must tell about me to those who are not Jews, to kings, and to the people of Israel.
Saul thought of himself as self-righteous. I listened the other day with keen interest as a lady described to me with disgust in her voice about the "C & E's" coming to her church.
I said to her, "I have no idea what you are talking about. What are "C & E's"
Well my dear, those are what "we" call Christmas and Easter Christians. You know them, they are the ones who only show up then.
I prayed for her right then and there. Max Lucado said "get sin to meet Savior and Savior to meet sin--and the result might be another Pharisee turned preacher who sets the world on fire." (from The Applause of Heaven by Max Lucado)
What a wonderful time of year to love on those C & E's. When they come into your Church and sit in the pew you have occupied for forty years, love them, don't point out that they are sitting "where you always sit."
This is a wonderful Road to Damascus experience for each of us. Christmas. While we are celebrating the birth of our King of Kings, we need to show everyone around us the love that King shows us.
C & E's Christmas and Easter. Yes, I used to be one. Merry Christmas!
Peace, love and Christmas Blessings to you and your family.
Your Brother in Christ,
Potential meets purpose for great accomplishments in the life of a young student.
A young student is interested in learning coding programs. He applies and is rejected because of his age. He does not give up and tries again and is accepted. Eventu
Saul, who later became Paul was somewhat of a hero to the Pharisees. His plan was to keep the Christians out of the kingdom. "To keep the kingdom pure". He marched through the countryside demanding that backslidden Jews salute the flag of the motherland or forever leave their families behind.
