St. Paul’s entire life can be explained in terms of one experience – his meeting with our Lord Jesus, on the road to Damascus. He was originally named Saul and was a Pharisee in Jerusalem. He was from the wicked lot and after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, he swore to wipe out the new Christian Church. He persecuted the early Christians. He created havoc, entering their homes, sending some to prison – even putting some to death. He always craved for notoriety. When he learnt that followers of Jesus had spread into Syria, he sought permission to go to Damascus to be after the Christians. As Saul and his Colleagues came near Damascus, suddenly they were flooded with glorious light, as if looking into the sun, from only a yard away. Saul fell to the ground and all of a sudden a voice emanated from within the light. A voice which was both terrifying and soothing at the same time. “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” humbly Saul inquired, “Who are you, Lord” and he got the reply, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting.” At first, he could not believe and understand but then he realised the feeling of guilt within him and began to tremble and shake uncontrollably. He knew it was the same Jesus that gave strength to so many of Saul’s victims. Unable to bear the intensity of the light he closed his eyes lightly and lost his eyesight. Ananias, the disciple of Jesus at Damascus, was sent by Jesus to restore the sight of Saul. He was baptized and became the follower of Christ. Saul was called “Paul” for the first time on the island of Cyprus much after his conversion.
The feast of conversion of St. Paul is celebrated on 25th January.
We too persecute Jesus in so many ways by not obeying God’s commandments. Jesus Himself said, “What you do unto others, you do unto me”. Jesus poses the same question, to us as well, “why do you persecute me?” do we have an answer? Let’s pause for a while and through the intercession of St. Paul, let us ask God to make us witnesses to his truth in this world.
Wishing one and all a Happy Feast.

Felix Dias