Paul’s letters and the Acts of the Apostles are a chronicle of bringing the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection to new venues like Athens. Paul treasured his role as an apostle – going out to the whole world and telling the Good News – so he might be troubled that, today, his words are heard most often by those who already believe.

He need not be troubled. For in my hearing I become the “words” of Paul, going into the times, places, and situations, he could not have imagined. I pray that I carry with me the joy and peace Paul felt as he brought to the Greeks the faith that we all are in the loving hands of one God, who has brought all to be and sustains all with the power of love.

We follow in the steps of Christ as the model of God among us, as Paul did, so that we may evangelize as Paul did.

What steps am I taking today to be available and to love someone in need? What steps am I taking today to express in words and action God’s love for those who are closest to me? What steps am I taking today to ensure that God knows my love and I recognize and receive God’s love for me?

Pray for someone you don’t love. It helps both of you.

Fr. Chris Manahan, S.J. is Associate Novice Director at the Jesuit Novitiate of St. Alberto Hurtado, St. Paul, MN. For more information on Jesuit vocations, click here.