Read Acts chapter 9 verses 1-19a
Luke the author of Luke and Acts, always takes great care to relay stories of Jesus and his disciples in such a way to reinforce themes of great significance. This account of the conversion of Saul is of great theological significance and pivotal to the wider perspective of Acts. In Luke 24:46-49 as Jesus is about to ascend into heaven he commands his disciples to preach "Him", starting in Jerusalem and then to all nations. Before Saul, evangelism was largely focussed upon Jerusalem. The story of his conversion takes "the Great Commission" into its next phase reintroducing significance of the nations. The Gospel has always been intended for all.
From this account several other themes are emerging. Here is a very devout man, firmly committed to his faith - full of zeal. He was on his way to bring justice upon Christian "heretics". Jesus, in a wall of blinding light appears to Saul and brings him literally to his knees (v8). Saul understandably is confused and frightened, Who are you, Lord?" he asks (v5). After his dramatic calling, coupled with blindness and confusion, he has three days to consider what these happenings mean before the obedient and rather brave Ananias finds him, heals him and prays for filling of the Holy Spirit. After this crisis experience, Paul (as he later became) puts all of his devout fervour and zeal into preaching the Lord. A commitment he takes to the point of ultimate sacrifice. He too travels the same journey as Stephen (Acts 7). The story of Jesus is so compelling that persecutors become messengers of "The Way" and ultimately, even themselves - the persecuted.
For Contemplation:
From the perspective of Jesus, consider Saul. A man dedicated zealously to the Father yet persecuting the Son. Consider human hatred in the name of religion and faith
From the perspective of Saul, consider his commitment to the Law and love of the One God (Deut 6:4-5). He was devoted to the point of immense anger for what he considered a dangerous heresy. Suddenly, he sees in blindness that he is wrong and has persecuted the One he was trying to serve. What did he feel as he lay waiting the messenger of the Lord?
From the perspective of Ananias, consider his bravery and devotion to Jesus. This was a dangerous request that went against all reason. What must he have thought, what strength must it have taken to follow his masters bidding? Yet he remained firm and committed to action.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus as we read your Word and live our daily lives fill us with your Spirit, fill us with devotion for you and a willingness to give ourselves totally into your service. At the same time, develop in us sensitivity for others and a willingness to learn from them. Amen.