I was a junior in high school when I had my conversion. Sixteen years old and terribly insecure, I was longing for love and acceptance. One spring evening on a Confirmation retreat, I opened my hands and heart and asked Jesus to love me.
Did I mention I’m a cradle Catholic? I grew up in the Church, attended religious education classes and even served in the nursery and as an altar server. I went to Mass every Sunday.
I knew about God. I thought about God. I believed in God. I even loved God.
I had my conversion of heart when I encountered the Person of Jesus. Kneeling uncomfortably on the wooden floor of a retreat house, I finally understood that the God I knew and thought about and believed in and even loved, loved me, too. Had loved me all along.
There was no lightning, and I didn’t fall from a horse, but even though there were no fireworks and I was already a practicing Catholic, my heart was undeniably converted.
What about you? When did you first encounter Jesus?
That’s the kind of conversion I’m talking about here. It doesn’t have to be as dramatic as murderer-turned-evangelist like Saint Paul, whose conversion we celebrate today. I want to know about your conversion from spectator to follower. From Catholic as culture or adjective, to a personal relationship with a Living Person.
From knowing about God to knowing Him intimately.
From loving God to letting God love you.
Christ wants to be your most important relationship and the purpose for your life. It’s the fullness of life He intended for us, and the only satisfaction we will find this side of Heaven.
All you have to do is open your hands to receive it.
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Beth!
Thank you soo much for this reflection! I am so grateful for how you always emphasize the importance of a deep and personal relationship with Christ, whether on these reflections or on the podcast. It has helped me understand so much about myself and others, as well as encourage me to continue to grow in that relationship no matter how hard it may be at times.
God bless you!!!
I am still waiting for my conversion of heart. This spoke to me so much as I am a cradle Catholic. I know, believe and love God but feel that something stops me just short of feeling that love in return. I guess I’m waiting for the lightening.
Thank you for sharing your story of conversion. I wish more people would share how God opened their eyes to Him and grabbed a hold of their hearts! Our stories are such a powerful way to tell others about the Lord!
PS-missing the podcast – hoping you’ll return soon!
I’m a cradle Catholic that’s returned to the church after being away for 8+ years and I still haven’t had my conversion but I’m going to start praying for it since I never thought to do that before reading this.
Lord, we lift up our sister in Christ, Kate, to You! We pray that you touch her heart, mind, and soul in a way that sets her ablaze. May her heart burn with fire for you. Open her eyes, ears, and mind to see how You long to be in deep relationship with her. Lord, use her story to share Your Story – the Greatest News. Amen