I chose you from the world, to go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord.
Because I believe the Word of God which endures forever, I have come to believe that we cannot bear fruit that will last unless we are doing the work of God.
I have occasionally, as a tourist, visited old mansions in the United States. In Europe, they say, a hundred miles is a long way; in the US, a hundred years is a long time. For fabulously wealthy Americans, a hundred years is a very long time. Their wealth is usually dissipated by succeeding generations. When I've asked about the heirs of this or that magnate, the tour guide might say a distant niece lives in some distant place, and has little interest in this relic of the past.
But the word of the Lord endures forever.
Saint Paul supposed he was serving God as he set out to torment those ridiculous Christians who were walking in the Way. He intended to erase all memory of Christ from the earth. He was in for quite a surprize. Not only would the Word of Jesus endure, his name would be forever associate with the Nazarene. The Lord had chosen him to go and bear fruit.
The former Pharisee never built a house, never amassed a fortune, and lived pretty much hand to mouth as he travelled the highways and waterways of the Roman Empire. Apparently no one told him he would need money to travel, so he didn't bother to collect it; he just went. Wherever the Spirit sent him.
Similarly, when he landed in jail, as he often did, he took advantage of the opportunity to write letters to the churches he had founded, and to tell his jailers and fellow inmates about the Lord. Why waste an obvious opportunity?
This annual Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul reminds us of our own responsibility and privilege; we know the Lord and we tell others about him.
People are naturally curious about their neighbors and colleagues; they wonder where we find the encouragement and spirit to live our values. Why do we deal honestly with people? Why are we optimistic and hopeful when the economy tanks and the wrong party is in office?
Even if they don't ask they're going to know we keep holy the sabbath, we protect the unborn, and we honor the institution of marriage.
As Saint Peter said, "Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope..."
And invite them to come with you to Church.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.