paul “rocks” lystra
“We must undergo many trials if we are to enter into the reign of God.” —Acts 14:22
St. Paul’s life had undergone a complete reversal. Paul (then known as Saul) approved the stoning of St. Stephen (Acts 7:58; 8:1). Now Paul was the one being stoned by the citizens of Lystra and being left for dead after preaching the Gospel (Acts 14:19).
Paul’s “disciples quickly formed a circle about him” and prayed (Acts 14:20). Paul was able to get up and was then courageous enough to go right back into the same town that had just stoned him. Imagine seeing a man covered with bruises, who had been left for dead, and hearing him tell you, “We must undergo many trials if we are to enter into the reign of God” (Acts 14:22). Paul had instant credibility as an evangelist! Paul left the next day to evangelize another town. But before long he returned a final time to minister in Lystra (Acts 16:1).
Inspired by St. Paul, let us courageously stand up for the truth of the Gospel and endure the sufferings and hardships required in living out the Gospel. Paul called himself “the worst” of sinners (1 Tm 1:15). But he broke with sin by his sufferings, and Jesus set him free to worship without fear and to prepare the way of the Lord throughout Asia Minor (see Lk 1:74-75). We are to live in peace, as Jesus says in today’s Gospel (Jn 14:27). “If possible, live peaceably with everyone” (Rm 12:18). However, may we never be ashamed of the Gospel (Rm 1:16). “Christ suffered in the flesh; therefore arm yourselves with His same mentality. He who has suffered in the flesh has broken with sin” (1 Pt 4:1).
Prayer: Father, may I believe in You with the same courage and conviction of St. Paul.
Promise: “ ‘Peace’ is My farewell to you, My peace is my gift to you.” —Jn 14:27
Praise: Diego studied the Bible intensely as a young adult. He now teaches the Faith to thousands.
Reference: (This teaching was submitted by a member of our editorial team.)
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