He stayed with the disciples in Damascus for several days. Right away, he began to preach about Jesus in the synagogues. “He is God’s Son,” he declared. Everyone who heard him was baffled. They questioned each other, “Isn’t he the one who was wreaking havoc among those in Jerusalem who called on this name? Hadn’t he come here to take those same people as prisoners to the chief priests?” But Saul grew stronger and stronger. He confused the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ. After this had gone on for some time, the Jews hatched a plot to kill Saul. However, he found out about their scheme. They were keeping watch at the city gates around the clock so they could assassinate him. But his disciples took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the city wall. (Acts 9:19b-25, CEB)
Have you ever run into an old friend and they seem different?
Just today actually a friend said, you changed. And yes I have trimmed my beard and it is purple, or blue depending on the light, but those who know me know my facial hair has a tendency to change color.
But Saul had changed from persecuting the followers of the way to being a follower of the way and proclaiming Jesus.
And that can happen with all of us. Do not let a person’s past control their future, only God controls the future and God can and does work in and through all things.
God can and will change people, give time, and do not judge people by their past.
Loving People. Loving God.
aSacredRebel 