Saint Paul in Prison
by Michael P. Mastropolo
Inspired by the painting after Rembrandt

     His name alone evokes feelings of awe and wonder. Behold his wide opened eyes, concentrated focus, and inner spirit radiating light brighter than the wall of light in his prison cell. There the apostle Paul ponders the mysteries of the Christian faith and how he can translate them simplistically.
     The tireless missionary has traveled throughout Greece and Asia Minor spreading the word of God. He continues to be faithful to his ministry even in prison. It is in prison that Paul writes four of his ten letters of the New Testament. Here he writes his last letter to the Christians at Philippi.
     "I have learnt to manage on whatever I have. I know how to be poor and I know how to be rich too. I have been through my initiation and now I am ready for anything anywhere; full stomach or empty stomach, poverty or plenty. There is nothing I cannot master with the help of the one who gives me strength... My God will fulfill all your needs... May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. " Philippians 4:11-23