On The Road to Damascus

"He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, 'Saul, Saul! Why do you persecute me?' And he asked, 'Who are you, Lord?' The voice replied, 'I am Jesus whom you are persecuting.'" - Acts of the Apostles 9:4-5

This story of Saul's conversion into Saint Paul is not just a tale that stays in the past, it is the very real story of Jesus' intervention in our lives today. Do you feel persecuted? Do you feel people, your job, family, illness, finances, or depression have you oppressed? The most important words Jesus said to Saul on the road to Damascus were "Why are you persecuting me?" Not, "why are you persecuting my people," but "why are you persecuting me?" By coming down from Heaven and becoming man, by taking our sins upon Himself, Jesus united Himself to us and our suffering forever. The disciples weren't the only ones being hurt by Saul, but Jesus Himself because we are that important to Him. Don't ever think you are alone in your suffering. Don't ever think Jesus looks upon what you go through in indifference, but *know* that He is there by your side.

Out of love and compassion to His disciples, because He is faithful to His promises, Jesus took Saul, one of their biggest opponents, and opened his eyes to the way of faith. No longer was Saul an obstacle, but Jesus came to the assistance of His friends and made what was once a problem, a blessing.

Who and what are the Saul's in your life that need to be converted into blessings in your life? Be confident in the Lord for He shares your hardships. Your pain He has taken on as His pain, and He will be the one to face what troubles you, as He faced Saul on the road to Damascus.

Today's Prayer:
Jesus, see my pain, see my suffering. Please see how I just can't carry on by myself anymore. You promised to unite Yourself to me and I beg You now to hear my plea. You know that I belong to You, Lord, please come to my assistance. In Your Name, we pray, amen.