Something Happened! – Galatians Part 1

Scripture: Galatians 1 (Link) 14 I was one of the most religious Jews of my own age, and I tried as hard as possible to follow all the old traditions of my religion. 15 But then something happened! For it pleased God in his kindness to choose me and call me, even before I was born! What undeserved mercy! (Galatians 1:14-15 NLT) Paul had a “Something happened!” experience in which he encountered the risen, living Christ, and his life was transformed. Paul told that story over and over, in all sorts of situations, for the rest of his life. Even though he was thoroughly educated and trained in the doctrines and traditions of his religion, the sense of purpose and calling that drove him forward was based in his “Something happened!” I have a “Something happened!” experience too! I had recently returned home from my tour of duty in Vietnam, where I had asked God to reveal himself to me in a life-transforming way. At the time I was in my late twenties and attended my church faithfully. I served as a Sunday School teacher, tithed and gave to the church, and believed the doctrines of the church completely. I expected to live a fulfilled life as an active member of my church and a successful Christian businessman. Then in a season of seeking more reality and “experience” in my faith, I had an encounter with God’s Holy Spirit that changed everything. I experienced the power and presence of the risen, living Christ! As I yielded my will, my dreams, and my ambitions to Christ, I gradually became aware that from before I was born, God had determined a purpose for my life – the privilege of serving Him. As I look back now, half a century downstream from my “Something Happened!” encounter with God’s Holy Spirit, I know that nothing short of God’s transforming power could have brought me from where I was then to where I am now! Friends, it doesn’t have to be like Paul’s “Something Happened!” experience on the road from Jerusalem to Damascus, or like my “Something Happened!” encounter with the Holy Spirit in a Jesus People meeting. I believe we all could use a “Something Happened!” point of reference to live with purpose and passion. (Know this, it’s likely put you outside the boundaries of your comfort zone!) Jesus said, “Ask, Seek, and Knock!” It’s not too late! You won’t be sorry! Prayer: Father, Thank you for that “Something happened!” time in my life. Help me never to forget that season of seeking, that encounter, and the certainty of your call and purpose for my life. Today I reaffirm my commitment to your plan for me. Amen.