Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. All those who heard him were astonished and asked, “Isn’t he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn’t he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?” Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah. After many days had gone by, there was a conspiracy among the Jews to kill him, but Saul learned of their plan. Day and night they kept close watch on the city gates in order to kill him. But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.

I have watched many movies that have a similar scene in them. But The Hunt for Red October seems to stand out. This undetectable Russian submarine, the Red October, is commanded by a General who wants to defect to the United States. As the Russians figured out the general’s plans, they hunted for this sub to destroy it, rather than have it fall into enemy hands. It turns out that an explosion happened underwater, and the Russians thought their sub was destroyed. However, it was a trick, and the stealthy sub made it to the United States without the Russians knowing it was still intact.The secret weapon they planned to use to dominate the free world was turned against them. In the hands of the United States, it would now be used to fight oppression and free more of the people of the world.

Paul was like a secret weapon against the early church. He knew the Jewish law like the back of his hand. He kept the law “perfectly”, according to the Jewish leaders. And he had a drive and passion that allowed him to relentlessly pursue his mission. The problem was, his mission was wrong and in error. He was battling on the wrong side.

But once Jesus called him, redeemed him and helped him to see the sin in his heart, he changed. He became a spiritual powerhouse for good, and baffled those who used to look up to him.

Like Saul, are there ways I can use my “lessons learned” from past sin for good? Will I turn my hurt into a loving impact in life? Will I relentlessly and passionately pursue the work of God — proclaiming the gospel and making disciples?

Lord, thank you for your turnaround of Saul. You called him and set him on the right path. Then he went “all in” for your work in life. Teach me to be and remain “all in” for your work in the lives of those around me as I serve you.