Obedient Disciple

Today we read, in Acts chapter nine, how Saul of Tarsus, persecutor of the church, was converted to Christianity. It is an amazing story. One encouraging aspect of this story for me is that God used an ordinary follower of Christ to play a foundational role in the launching of Saul (Paul) into his ministry and his acceptance into the fellowship of believers.

In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, "Ananias!"
"Yes, Lord," he answered.

The Lord told him, "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight."

"Lord," Ananias answered, "I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name."

But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."

Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, and after taking some food, he regained his strength. (Acts 8:10-19)

Today, as an act of worship, join me in praising God for using Ananias the way he did. May we strive to be fully obedient in our service to the Lord - especially when he calls us to minister to our enemies.