A Change of Heart

People are often characterized by the consequences of their efforts, or you could say “by the fruits of their labor.” This generally makes sense – benevolent acts stem from people expressing kindness, and destructive acts stem from people expressing enmity. Unfortunately, moments of passion can drive a person to do things that have a lasting impact which fosters a negative impression on others long afterward. The good news is that we can repent and be forgiven by the grace of God. But our neighbors, who aren’t able to perceive our changes the way Christ does, may have difficulty accepting the new version of ourselves.

This week, we will reflect on the conversion of Saul. Saul was a persecutor of the early church who actively sought to punish people who followed the teachings of Jesus. He had a reputation for cruelty that made Christians fearful of him, but Saul experienced Christ in a dramatic way that changed his perspective. Instead of suppressing Christ’s message, he became one of Christianity’s most ardent supporters. Join us this Sunday as we look at Saul’s conversion story and consider how we respond to changes of heart, both in others as well as ourselves.