How much he must suffer for the sake of my name.

Acts 9:15-19, But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel. For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized; and taking food, he was strengthened.

One of the great acts of faith, for Ananias knew well of Saul’s reputation, mission, methods and deeds. He responded as did Samuel, “Here am I Lord,” and as did Mary, “How can this be,” willing to hear from the Lord all that he would do with Saul transformed to Paul by grace. And it’s not particularly good news when the word “suffer” is involved, as Paul would soon find out. And why should we be surprised if we should encounter suffering, for it is as Peter says, it’s better when we suffer for doing good. Are we willing to endure suffering to bring glory to the name of Jesus?

Give us the strength to endure whatever brings glory to the name of Jesus!

ESV Lectionary