Friday 24th April – Friday of the 3rd week of Eastertide

Reflection: Acts 9:1-20

YOU ARE GOOD ENOUGH FOR GOD TO USE

Though we often do not like to be judged by others, we find ourselves almost always judging others. Ananias, the disciple must have been greatly surprised by God’s instruction about Saul and wondered, “Lord, do you really know this man? He is our arch enemy! Let me tell you a bit about him…” but God insisted, “This man is my chosen instrument to bring my name before the pagans…” God is unquestionable as regards whom He decides to use for work. Regardless of your past, you are good enough for Him if you are open to His mercy and grace.

If Paul, the Church’s great persecutor could encounter God right on his way to Damascus to persecute Christians, who cannot be brought to conversion? Who are you to judge that person in your class or neighbourhood? Something noteworthy about Saul was that his actions stemmed from sincerity. He persecuted the Church, not because of sheer hatred but because he thought they were going against God’s law. Hence his action stemmed from a “sincere ignorance”.

Are you available to be used for the glory of God? Do you live in sincerity before Him? Let your actions stem from a sincere love for God and readiness to do His will and you will be surprised what great things He will do with you.

PRAYER: Lord, I give you my life. Please manifest your love and glory through me. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 196 – Who can be baptized, and what is required of a candidate?

Any person who is not yet baptized can be baptized. The only prerequisite for Baptism is faith, which must be professed publicly at the Baptism.
A person who turns to Christianity is not just changing a world view. He travels a path of learning (the cathecumenate), in which he becomes a new man through personal conversion, but especially through the gift of Baptism. He is now a living member of the Body of Christ.

HIDE A TREASURE: “If anyone purifies himself from what is ignoble, then he will be a vessel for noble use, consecrated and useful to the master of the house, ready for any good work.”
2 Timothy 2:20 RSV-CE

Today’s Readings: Acts 9:1-20; Psalm 117:1-2; John 6:52-59