While this weekend is the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Church also celebrates the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul. In June 2008, Pope Benedict XVI declared that July 2008 through June 2009 would be dedicated to St. Paul, the Apostle. It is fitting, therefore, that the Church celebrates the feast of this momentous occasion.
We may not hear the voice of Jesus as explicitly as did St. Paul on the road to Damascus, but Jesus speaks to us nonetheless. We hear Jesus' voice in our hearts, through our families and friends, and in the events of our days. Paul responded, "What shall I do, sir?" Through the encouragement of Ananias and others, Paul proclaimed the Good News of Jesus Christ to people throughout the Roman Empire and beyond. Through the encouragement of our families, we respond to Jesus' call in our hearts, proclaiming the Good News of Jesus Christ through our words and our actions.
Faith Chat Question: How have you heard Jesus' voice speaking to you? Who encourages you to live and share the Good News of Jesus?
Faith Response: Spend some time this week learning about St. Paul. Look in your family Bible for maps of Paul's journeys. Read about his journeys and ministry in Acts of the Apostles, chapters 13-28. Read passages from his letters in the New Testament. Search the Internet for information about "St. Paul, the Apostle."
Pray: Lord Jesus, you called St. Paul to serve you, and he devoted his life to proclaiming your Good News. Empower us with your Holy Spirit that we, too, may devote our lives to proclaiming your love through our words and our actions. Amen.
