REFLECT: The British philosopher and atheist, Bertrand Russell was once asked what he would say to God if he appeared to him after death and demanded to know why he had failed to believe. Russell answered, “Why did you not give me better evidence?” Some would argue that Saul, who had one of the most dramatic conversion experiences found in the Bible, had exactly what Russell was asking for; better evidence.

But there’s a catch. After the blinding light and voice from heaven, Saul is visited by a man named Ananias. He learns then that God has a big job for him, but also learns “how much he must suffer for his name.” (Acts 9:16)

This is sobering. Why might it have been important for Saul to hear this at the beginning of his new life with Jesus? We too, may experience suffering for having chosen to follow Jesus. How can sobering, but realistic news like this help us prepare for what might be ahead? 

RESPOND: How has your own experience in following Jesus involved suffering? What has it taught you? If you’re currently in a time of difficulty, ask God to come along side you and comfort and sustain you. Take hope in what Saul (as Paul) would later write in Romans 5:3-4: “We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.”

READ:  Acts 9:1-6, 10-12, 17-18
As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do…”

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.”

…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. 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.