Why do we find conversion stories so inspirational? Maybe I should be asking, why do I find conversion stories so inspirational. Just yesterday I came across a story about five medical students who were executed in 1943 by the Nazis. The story of one is unique in that he was baptized and received the Eucharist the day before his execution.
Today’s reading from the Acts of the Apostles always intrigued me because it mentions that Saul who we know to be Paul sought out Christians and dragged them from their homes turning them over to the authorities for persecution and imprisonment and yet became a prominent missionary making Jesus known, loved and served.
Christ's Love Is Greater than Our Sins
Throughout history we meet people who were flawed, sinful, psychologically wounded but they gradually discovered that the love of Christ was greater than all their sins and fears; that we may turn away from God, but he never turns his back on us. By the grace of God, hearts that were hardened allowed Jesus words to break through: “whoever comes to me I shall not turn away.”
Recall the words Peter and John who preached to a cripple. I have, neither silver nor gold to give you, but what I do have I share with you: In the name of Jesus of Nazareth our Lord and Savior…
We see the power of that name at work today not only in the incredible conversion stories and the countless thousands who received the Easter Sacraments but also in the tens of thousands of Africans coming out to greet the Holy Father and participate in the liturgical services offered in each country that he is visiting.
He is doing what Steven did and was persecuted for; what Peter and John did, and yes what Philip did when he went to Samaria. As with the disciples so now with our African brothers and sisters the Bread of Life is being humbly received by the humble of hearts.
Abide in Hope
Signs and wonders abound. Not so much with cripples who now walk or the sick who are now healed but in hearts that have come alive, in wounded spirits that have been revived, hope that has been renewed and the assurance given that whoever comes to Him will not be turned away.
Some may wonder but what must we do in return. Simply be. In the words of Augustine “live good lives and you yourselves will be his praise.”
- Today’s Readings
- Father Leo's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center today. You can watch the entire Mass on the Family Rosary Video streams channel on YouTube.
- Join the Rosary (11:30 am ET) and Mass (Noon ET) livestreams on the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page, Monday – Friday. Invite your friends and family to pray with you as well.
