Scripture
10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
11 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. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
13 “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14 And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
17 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.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19 and after taking some food, he regained his strength.
Saul in Damascus and Jerusalem
Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus.
Reflection
The details in this short story are amazing. Ananias, a Christian, is told in a vision to go and pray for the man who has been persecuting Christians, lay hands on him to restore his sight. This man, called Saul, is expecting someone, named Ananias, (he knows the name because he has been told in his own vision). Visions, names, addresses . . . it’s all been arranged, now all the Lord needs is a willing obedient person to go (Ps. Dale).
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell us about God and people?
- How might this passage change how we live?
- Who can you encourage with this story/message?
Prayer
Pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit on SCF
