The Apostle Paul, prior to his conversion, was a religious leader of Israel, and he was bent on destroying the emerging Christian movement. Why did he find Christianity so distasteful?

For one, Christians claimed that the Messiah had arrived. Secondly, followers of the risen Christ indicated that faith in Jesus, not adherence to the Jewish law, was the key to salvation.

Well, it is of course ironic that Paul became "the apostle to the Gentiles" --- the driving force in expanding the Christian movement far beyond being just another Jewish splinter group. In addition to traveling the known world to spread the Gospel message to all nations, Paul also developed the theological framework for the acceptance of Gentiles into God's kingdom --- something considered blasphemous within traditional Judaism and even troublesome at first to some of the early Christian leaders.

The heart of the good news, and in some ways the heart of the scandal, of Christianity is that just about anybody can be a Christian. One's religious, social, political or national background makes no difference. What does make a difference is whether you want to be around Jesus Christ. The kingdom of heaven is not like a country club, where only the beautiful and socially connected are welcome. It is more like a park --- open to the public, to anyone who wishes to enjoy its beauty and its bounty.

This is good news for those of us who have no distinguished social, religious, political or national pedigree. It means that God loves ordinary people just as much as God loves powerful people. But it can be threatening news to the powerful --- those who feel they deserve special favor because of their rank, position, breeding or wealth. Exclusivity can be an intoxicating experience --- once welcomed into a prestigious organization, we can become fixated on ensuring that no "unworthy" members are allowed to join.

Paul was transformed from an opponent to the inclusiveness of the Jesus movement to its leading advocate. He was transformed, as we all must be, by the love of God. And we must all be open to and embrace that reality that anyone can join us --- regardless of what they look like, how they dress, where they come from, what they've done in the past --- all who wish to follow Jesus are accepted. All are welcome. We are called to not just to accept them but to welcome them.

While I might take some misguided pride in my professional or academic achievements, I know that my spiritual resume is pitiful. I might get an "A" for effort in following Jesus, but I deserve an "F" for execution. I am not a religious titan, or a pillar of my community, or a generous philanthropist. I am a seeker. Lucky for me, the kingdom of God is open to all who seek it.

Bill Peatman writes from Napa.