Rev. Dr. Jennifer Smith

Saul was doing his best with what he knew. He had read the scriptures and he respected the teachings and the traditions. He was confident in his convictions and determined to protect the faith from the winds of change. He was positive that Jesus was not the Lord and that the followers of His way were a threat. Until, God cast a blinding light on his path and Jesus called Saul to perceive the truth.

Have you ever been absolutely sure you were right until you weren’t? Saul’s journey reminds us that even God-seeking people can be wrong at times. Those who read scripture can come to misguided conclusions. Even church people can cause harm. And when we realize we are the ones who got it wrong, we will be tempted to cover our tracks.

Saul teaches us to resist this temptation. Once Jesus reveals that Saul’s violence towards Christians is a sin, Saul acknowledges his ignorance and the pain he caused. He confesses his sin and experiences God’s forgiveness in the waters of baptism.

Saul does not cover up “his former ways of life,” but rather admits his failures in order to cast light upon God’s amazing grace. Saul’s call would forever be grounded in his keen awareness of his imperfection and the unmerited love and forgiveness by which Jesus called him to new life.

This week as you pray and read the scriptures invite Jesus to cast light upon your life. Be open to the revelation of where you have it wrong or where you are causing harm. Don’t hide; bring your sin into the light. Confess your sin and seek God’s forgiveness. Then you will experience new freedom and you will have your own story of God’s grace.

Read a passage of scripture and pray the prayer each day:

Sunday: Acts 9:1-9

Monday: Acts 9:10-21

Tuesday: Romans 3:9-31

Wednesday: Romans 5:1-12

Thursday: Romans 8:1-17

Friday: Romans 8:18-39

Saturday: Rest