blessing

The crucifixion of Jesus brought an end to many traditions. The Temple was critically damaged so the sacrifices were compromised. There were the many who no longer felt compelled to follow the ones who led to the death of their rabbi. The Law was tempered in three short years of teaching, and people felt empowered to ask different questions than the politically correct ones.

Paul was transformed into the super apostle he was in order to provide some sense to the unrest. He was a brilliant student with the skill to learn quickly and adapt to the new knowledge. He was a keen observer of cultures and religions. He was physically tough, mentally sharp and spiritually sensitive.

Unfortunately he also dreamed of wiping out the new movement of Jesus' devotees. 

The Damascus road blinding of Paul by Jesus was to give Paul a living demonstration of the blindness that humanity was enduring. It was through the work of a different believer that Paul could regain his sight, demonstrating the critical importance of the Body of believers over the individual. It was Paul who was escorted to the wilderness for personal teaching by Jesus that applied the Old Testament to his life and teachings.

And what did Paul learn?

Freely give, even if nothing is received.

The flesh is a monster never to be trusted.

Love everyone, but love those in the body enough to help them grow into Christlikeness.

Don't ignore the Old Testament, but don't worship it either.

Christ on the cross is the final fulfillment of man's true problem. There is no need for other gods, traditions, or philosophies for man to live a good, full and pleasing life.

Paul learned, taught and lived how to be a blessing. Even when he was rebuking the Corinthians or confronting the Romans, his goal was harmony and blessing among the saints. 

May it be the same with us these days. May our blindness fall like scales  that we might see the needs around us!