"I persecuted this Way to the death..."

Acts 22:2-5, And when they heard that he was addressing them in the Hebrew language, they became even more quiet. And he said: “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city, educated at the feet of Gamaliel according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as all of you are this day. I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering to prison both men and women, as the high priest and the whole council of elders can bear me witness. From them I received letters to the brothers, and I journeyed toward Damascus to take those also who were there and bring them in bonds to Jerusalem to be punished.”

Paul was zealous for the Lord, even when he did not recognize who Jesus is. He was on his way to bring the Way to an early death when by a sovereign act of God Jesus revealed Himself and His purpose for Paul. There are those who see God as harsh, angry and vengeful, yet we see Him pursuing Paul despite his actions! There are others who recognize their deep need to find forgiveness and the power to be free from sin, and this shows us that no one is beyond the reach of His amazing grace. A favorite teacher of mine challenged us to pray that God reveal Himself, even if that person does not really believe in Him. Am I asking God to reveal Himself ?

Lord, I want more of You; reveal Yourself, that I may know You and Your amazing gospel better every day!

ESV Lectionary