Tuesday 15 July 2025
He asked, “Who are you, Lord?” The reply came, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. But get up and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” (vs 5-6)
Background
In today’s reading there is a ‘before’ and ‘after’, rather like those pictures we see of a room that has had a makeover, or of someone who has lost a large amount of weight. What’s more there are two people in the story who experience a transformation – a 'before' and 'after'.
Of course, the main character is Saul, his change of name to Paul later in Acts marking that transformation. We hear that he had set out specifically to persecute Christians in Damascus, a city with a large Jewish community, situated on major trading routes. As a major cultural centre it would have attracted visitors from many areas, not least from Jerusalem which was a six days' journey to the south. Among those visitors and traders would be Christian converts. These were the target of Saul’s campaign when he was stopped abruptly on the Damascus road by a vision of the risen Jesus. Suddenly the man who was a leader had to be led, having been struck blind. One who had been very focused on tasks and no doubt gave orders to others suddenly had to be told what to do next.
Meanwhile, in Damascus a quieter, less dramatic conversion was taking place, but one with almost as much significance. Ananias, a disciple in Damascus, who had heard of Saul’s fierce persecution of Christians in Jerusalem and probably lived in some fear of Saul travelling north to Damascus, also had a vision of God. There was no blinding light this time and no physical mark on Ananias of the encounter. However, the challenge put to him transformed him. He was to go to meet this Saul and give him a blessing.
The blessing restored Saul’s sight. Having been reconciled to God in Jesus on the road and in his baptism, Saul then began his reconciliation with his former enemies and, more than that, he began to proclaim Jesus as the son of God.
To Ponder:
- Reflect on what changes your ‘conversion’, whether dramatic or quiet, brought about in your attitude to others.
- There is talk today of a ‘quiet revival’, especially among young people. Is there a young person you can start a conversation with about spirituality and faith?
Prayer
Lord, you meet each of us in different ways. You transform and challenge us according to your will for us and for your mission. May we be open, as Ananias was, to receive your guidance however hard it sounds. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Pamela Cram
Pam worked in several circuits and ecumenical posts in Wales before retiring in the Swansea Valley, where she is involved in a non-denominational community project; a church partnership with a Welsh independent church; and action for Fairtrade.