March 16
Acts 9:1 – 20
Link to Bible verses: Acts 9
Humility: leads to a more loving stance in the world through authenticity
One way of experiencing these verses about Paul’s conversion is to read them as a crash course in humility. In less than a week, Paul flew up the ladder of humility, ascending all 12 rungs at lightning speed. (See what I did there??)
St Benedict suggests we consider the side rails of the ladder of humility to be our body and soul. I love this image. It’s nondualistic and reminds us that we cannot leave behind the body or soul in a spiritual journey. And St. Benedict also describes, almost ironically, the journey of humility as climbing up the ladder, not down.
A very brief version of the 12 rungs of the ladder of humility is below. Consider reading through Acts 9:1 – 20 after reading these 12 steps as a way to help visualize Paul’s story as well as the ladder.
- Recognize the presence of God
- Accept the will of God
- Accept spiritual direction
- Persevere
- Acknowledge faults
- Live simply
- Be honest about yourself
- Be willing to learn from others
- Listen to people
- Speak kindly to others
- Accept others the way they are
- Be centered and serene
Begin climbing!
Thank you to Linda Land-Closson for writing our 2026 Lenten Devotions.