READING: Job 21-22, Acts 22:6-21
Once again in the Scriptures, we come face-to-face with the powerful grace of God. Today’s New Testament reading reminds us of Saul’s/Paul’s dramatic conversion when an intense light caught his attention, Jesus spoke to him, and Ananias showed him God’s will that Paul would “be a witness for him to all people of what you have seen and heard” (Acts 22:15). That calling in itself is amazing, but even more so when Paul himself speaks of his life prior to this event: “Lord, they know that in synagogue after synagogue I had those who believed in you imprisoned and beaten. And when the blood of your witness Stephen was being shed, I stood there giving approval and guarding the clothes of those who killed him” (Acts 22:19-20).
Paul was instrumental in the persecution of believers. He approved of the murder of Stephen. If we had no more details of the story, we surely would assume that God would eventually punish Paul for seeking to destroy the people of God. We do have more details, however, and they’re incredible: Jesus called Paul to Himself and made Him a witness for His name.
I don’t know the answer to this question, but I wonder how many other persecutors of the church through the pages of history have turned to God and found His grace yet available. Even just one is amazing.
PRAYER: “God, thank You that You save even those who kill Your people.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Job 23-27, Acts 22:22-23:10