Glory to Glory

Part 1: The Conversion of Saul

Happy Father’s Day, Chapel family!

This week, Scott kicked off a new series on the life of Paul. Formerly known as Saul, Paul was a fierce persecutor of the early Christian church. Saul’s life took a dramatic turn on his way to Damascus, where he was planning to arrest more believers. A light from heaven struck him, and he heard Jesus say, “Saul! Saul! Why are you persecuting me?” Trembling and blinded, Saul was led by his companions into Damascus, where he waited, fasting and praying.

Meanwhile, God appeared to Ananias, a disciple in Damascus, and told him to visit Saul. Despite knowing Saul’s reputation, Ananias obeyed God’s command, laid hands on Saul, restored his sight, and baptized him. Saul was then filled with the Holy Spirit. Immediately, he began preaching in the synagogues, proclaiming Jesus as the Son of God, completely shocking all who heard him. The Jews in Damascus were amazed at Saul’s complete transformation from a persecutor to a preacher of Christ.

Saul was headed full steam in the wrong direction—he couldn’t have been on a worse path. Yet, God’s response wasn’t to strike him down, confuse him, or torment him. Instead, God met Saul right where he was, entering his world, addressing him by name, and showing him that He longed for Saul to know him personally.

Saul’s story is our story. God can completely change your life and transform any situation you’re in. He can enter your world, make his presence known, and instantly alter your circumstances—this is the beauty, greatness, and goodness of God.

God deeply loves and values you. He treasures you, cares for you, and is interested in every aspect of your life. God is with you even when you make mistakes or face difficult circumstances. His love can transform any situation, no matter how hopeless it seems.