January 25, 2023 -- Acts 9:1-9 -- The Acts of the Apostles: The Light overcomes darkness

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But Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. 3 Now as he went on his way, he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven shone around him. 4 And falling to the ground, he heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” 5 And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 6 But rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” 7 The men who were traveling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. 8 Saul rose from the ground, and although his eyes were opened, he saw nothing. So they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. 9 And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
Acts 9:1-9 ESV

Interestingly, the believers are those belonging to “the Way”. Jesus is The Way (John 14:6). Those who follow Him are following the Way to the Father in the power of the Spirit. It is light that stops Saul. Jesus is the Light of the World (John 8:12). The darkness cannot overcome the light (John 1:5). Any activity which is against Great Name of Jesus is a work of darkness.

Recently I read a powerful quotation, “drag queens are to womanhood what blackface is to people of colour”. Think about it, a godless activity of men masquerading as women is a huge insult to womanhood. It is a denigration of their dignity. In the very same way blackface is an insult to those men and women of colour who are fearfully and wonderfully made so by our Creator. Paul has been masquerading as one devoted to God, but he is denigrating the very notion of devotion. He is false. One’s devotion is not what matters, one’s devotion to Him Who is Holy and True is what matters. Jesus is the fountainhead of all new life, which by the love of the Father, flows through Him. All Who call on the Name of the LORD will be saved (Joel 2:32). This is why it is hugely significant that through-out the New Testament Jesus is called “Lord”. He is linking Himself with the Father in Heaven.

Lead us, blessed Jesus, from the darkness of our sins and waywardness, to the glorious Light of Your grace. Faithful Father, blessed be Your Name! Great are You, Father, Source of every good gift. Thank You, Triune God, for the powerful presence of Your Spirit Who overcomes the power of darkness that so easily takes a stranglehold on us. Thank You Glorious God, for the fact that Jesus has overcome the darkness and the power of grave. In Your victory Jesus, let us walk in victory, and in joy-filled obedience, until finally we see You face to face. Amen.

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