Where are you? God is looking for you.

WANTED! SAUL'S ACCOMPLICES TO DAMASCUS

by Ogaga Eruteya  

Certainly, the story of Saul’s conversion in the bible will always make an interesting read. However, something quite intriguing (to probe) is the fate of the men who journeyed with him on that despicable mission. The last we heard of these guys was that they led blind Saul by the hand into Damascus[1]. Beyond that, nothing more as it is unlikely that they were with him at Judas’ place on the Straight Street where Ananias went to extend a hand of fellowship[2].

The big question is what happened to them? Why wasn’t any other detail provided about them – particularly after such a dreadful, life-defining episode? Just a singular idea comes to mind. The holy writ gave no further information about them probably because there was nothing noteworthy (and therefore scripture-worthy) about them, sequel to that event.

At this, a curious mind is left to wonder what these men, made of what happened to their former kingpin. Were they convinced? Were they confused? Were they convicted? Here was a fearless, ruthless, daredevil persecutor with a seared conscience brought down to his knees right before their very eyes. First, a sudden wave of light from heaven flashed around him (alone)[3]. This means it was a clear scene for their view. Then, Saul smitten by the force behind the illumination fell to the earth[4]. Immediately, the voice of an invisible being, audible enough for all of them to hear, conversed with their master[5]. Initially, the brightness of the light made Saul, by reflex to shut his eyes. However, after the dialogue, opening his eyes, he discovered he was blind![6]

To start with, was the conversation they heard revealing enough to convince them of Jesus’ lordship and therefore, the need to submit to Him (as Saul had done)? Was it anything to them that valiant Saul trembled in fear and surrender to the lord? Was it anything to them that after that encounter Saul jumped ship into the same camp he had hitherto antagonized? Was it anything to them that Saul became a completely overhauled person – very different from whom they previously knew? If these meant anything to them, why then did they not commit to the Lord as well? We did not read of this, whether during those strange moments or thereafter.

So, what became of these people? Is it true that after being privileged to witness such life-changing episode, they themselves were unaffected? Indeed, it is disheartening to note; but this seems to be the reality. After standing speechless for some time, everything dissipated from their minds as though it were a mere occurrence.

Alas, many of us have been in these same shoes sometime – privileged to witness dramatic encounters that redefined destinies but we remained unchanged. Well, it is no longer news that all such people are wanted. Yes, if you are one of them, then heaven is on the lookout for you! The saints are concerned about you. Now, is the time to reflect deeply on that encounter and make your own turnaround. How could you have allowed such to pass just like that? The Lord is calling out to you. Respond now, so we can find you.        

1 Acts 9:8

[2] Acts 9:9-11, 17

[3] Acts 9:3

[4] Acts 9:4

[5] Acts 9:4,7

[6] Acts 9:3-4, 8-9

Source: FaithWriters.com

Today is the day to reconcile yourself with God. Stephen Kimball reminisces about the past and the opportunity we still have while we are alive to seek God's forgiveness.

Moving On

by Stephen Kimball  

Recently, I traveled with my family to the area where I spent my childhood.

“That seems a lot smaller than it did when I was a kid.” I say, as I try to reconcile the differences between the humble abode that I am looking at and the memories of the nest from which I flew out of, twenty something years ago.

To me it was home, but no one can join me on that journey back in time. My mind plays a video of many, many of the memories that are held in its recesses. I can only try to describe for my kids what the house looked like, back in the day - in its prime. Dingy and overgrown now, I know the kids can’t envision its former glory. I drive around, dumbfounded by the changes in the neighborhood. Besides the general run down look, there is nobody around.

“When I was a kid, this place was active and inviting. There were always kids riding their bikes around, playing out in the school fields.”

We move on to drive by my old schools, the church I grew up in and my grandparents’ home, each one evoking so many memories. At each stop, the experience is much the same as it was at my old house.

We finally reach the cemetery where my grandparents are buried and it hits me like a ton of bricks that my kids could never understand how things used to be. Too many things have changed. Tears begin to well up in my eyes as I ponder the day and I think to myself…”You can go back, but you can never go back to the way it was.” 

Perhaps instead of a trip to your old stomping grounds it is a spiritual mountain top experience you are looking at in your rear view mirror but when you try to get back there, something has changed; you realize the moment was a gift or a mirage that cannot be recaptured. Maybe it was when you first encountered the gospel message, when God’s forgiveness first seemed possible and hope filled your heart. I want to remind you today that you are God’s treasure. He loves you just as much today as He did when He was nailed to the cross in your place. 

Has your “faith” fallen into disrepair, like my old neighborhood? Is it dingy, run down and unattractive? Yes, life happens and people err but forgiveness is still available, hope is still available. God desires to wrap His arms around you once again and bring you back into His fold, but He won’t force you. He can take your questions, doubts and failures and turn them into something beautiful and useful in His hands, the likes of which you have not yet seen. Make a fresh start today; it’s never too late to place your trust in Jesus.

"The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."Lamentations 3:22-23

Source: FaithWriters.com

Hi Everyone!

Happy New Year!

It's been a while since I posted any comments. I've been enjoying my retirement and studying the bible. I will turn 70 this month, so my mind is becoming more and more focused on seeing God face to face, rather than pursing ambitious goals. I'm just thinking about what I can do for the Lord during the years I have left. To receive our crown of victory in the next life, God expects you and me to fight the good fight, keep the faith, and persevere until the end in this one. So my work is not yet done.

If there is something on your mind of a spiritual nature that you would like me to comment on, feel free to let me know.

In the meantime...

May the Lord bless you and protect you. May He look with favor upon you and give you peace by healing you and providing all that you need to live life abundantly.

John