What if God’s refining fire is found in the furnace of solitude? Explore Saul’s dramatic conversion through Michelangelo’s art and Acts 9, inviting radical honesty and transformation. Step into the light—and discover how God might be shaping your life today.

Acts 9:1-9

In this powerful episode of Art and Prayer, Rev. Rob McPherson invites viewers to enter the transformative “furnace of solitude” inspired by Henri Nouwen’s reflections in The Way of the Heart. Against the backdrop of Michelangelo’s dramatic painting The Conversion of Saul, the session explores the intense process of spiritual change that Saul experienced on the road to Damascus—a moment that stripped away everything except God’s presence to forge the Apostle Paul.

Rob encourages participants to quiet their minds and open themselves fully to God’s presence, embracing the often challenging and unsettling nature of contemplative prayer as a space for radical honesty and deep transformation. Through a slow and reflective reading of Acts 9:1-9, listeners are invited to experience Saul’s story anew, imagining the sudden, blinding encounter with Christ and the profound silence that follows.

The painting’s vivid imagery—a fallen Saul supported by a companion, witnesses reacting with awe, and a radiant light from heaven—becomes a mirror for participants to reflect on their own moments of spiritual upheaval and growth. Attention is drawn to the symbolic “furnace” of change, where God’s refining fire burns away distractions and impurities, making room for love, compassion, and authentic service.

Throughout the session, Rob gently guides listeners to listen for personal words or insights from God, connecting the scripture and artwork to their own lives. Participants are invited to discern what steps God may be calling them to take and to embrace the discomfort of change with hope, knowing they are held in divine love.

As the episode closes, Rob reassures viewers that while the process of transformation may feel intense—even destructive—it is ultimately a sacred journey toward grace and renewal. He encourages sharing this contemplative experience with others and offers continued resources at artandprayer.org.

🎨 ARTWORK

Title: The Conversion of Saul

Artist: Michelangelo

Cappella Paolina, Vatican Palace, Vatican City

🎵 MUSIC

Lost in Prayer by Doug Maxwell

Emotional Cinematic Inspirational Piano (Loop) by Good_B_Music (Pixabay License)

Ambient Background by DELOSound (Pixabay License)

Blessed (Extended Version) by Good_B_Music (Pixabay License)

Blessed (Main Version) by Good_B_Music (Pixabay License)

Soft Piano Music 10 Minutes Long by kalstockmedia