Read: Acts 22:3–16
While I was on my way and approaching Damascus, about noon a great light from heaven suddenly shone about me. I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” Acts 22:6–7
How wild a claim, and how provocative a witness! Paul, the great persecutor of the church, was stopped in his tracks on his way to Damascus by Jesus, and from that day forward the orientation of his life changed. Three times in the book of Acts, Paul recounted his conversion experience. There was a great light. There was a voice. Jesus appeared and commissioned Paul. It must have sounded preposterous to the critical minds of the day. That sort of thing just doesn’t happen. At the same time, the evidence of conversion was undeniable. Whatever happened on the road to Damascus, Paul was an entirely different person as a result of the experience. Whether or not it sounded crazy to those who would listen, Paul regularly witnessed to his encounter with Jesus—and Paul’s witness continues to inspire our faith even today.
Do you remember a time when someone shared their faith with you?
Lord, I keep silent about You and about my faith in You. Give courage to my voice. Grant me some of the courage You offered Paul. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.