Moment of Meditation: Appointed by Christ (Galatians 1:1)

''Paul, an apostle--not from men nor through man, but through Jesus Christ and God the Father (Galatians 1:1).'' People don't make other people Apostles or prophets or preachers or teachers. God gives them those offices (Ephesians 4:11). God gives these gifts to the Church. Paul was appointed an Apostle by the risen Lord Jesus. On the Damascus Road, Paul came face-to-face with the Savior he was persecuting. Even St. Ananias was dubious of the Lord's call, but Jesus says, "He is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel. For I will show him how many things he must suffer for My name's sake" (Acts 9:16-17). Jesus appointed Paul to be an Apostle because he could go between Jewish and Gentile culture in a way that the other Apostles couldn't. Jesus appointed Paul to be sent to all nations, just as He commanded the disciples before His Ascension (Matthew 28:18-19). Paul was an Apostle of Jesus Christ. And for this reason we listen to His words. Because the words are all about Jesus. Amen.