Acts 9:19-22  And after taking some food, he regained his strength. Saul was with the disciples in Damascus for some time. Immediately he began proclaiming Jesus in the synagogues: “He is the Son of God.” All who heard him were astounded and said, “Isn’t this the man in Jerusalem who was causing havoc for those who called on this name and came here for the purpose of taking them as prisoners to the chief priests?” But Saul grew stronger and kept confounding the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah. (CSB)

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Life change can happen in an instant. 

Saul, who became Paul, was blinded by the light (verses 3 and 4). Sightless, he could only hear what Jesus had to say to him. He heard it loud and clear. Jesus knew him by name. Jesus had a question for which Saul previously had an answer. Saul had a question he was afraid to hear answered. Jesus then gave instructions for where to go so that he could hear the rest of the message. (See verses 1-6). 

Saul heard and obeyed Jesus. Then, he heard more about Jesus. Coming to know him for who he really is, Saul regained his sight, received God’s gift of eternal life, and was filled with the Holy Spirit. He was baptized and ate and drank for the first time in three days. 

Seeing Jesus for who he is changes how we see everything. The “scales fell from his eyes.” 

Saul’s life was reoriented toward Jesus. Verse 20 tells us the effect of what happened to him: 

Immediately, he began proclaiming Jesus in the synagogues: “He is the Son of God.”

Saul lived the rest of his life in the light of this moment. He tells this story repeatedly in this book. This is not the only big event in his life. In 2 Corinthians 11:16 and following, Paul gives a long list of his big adventures. There were many more dramatic events after those listed there. 

True transformation has a starting place, but that moment is seldom the final moment. Transformation leads us on a journey of successive moments where we climb higher and dig deeper. Remember how and when you came to meet Jesus. Develop the discipline of walking with him through every day. Tell your story, and help others start this journey for themselves. 

Saul’s first recorded words after meeting Jesus are, “He is the Son of God” (verse 20). Half of the New Testament is Paul’s explanations of what that means for all kinds of people in all kinds of life situations. 

Saul was changed forever in an instant. He spent the rest of his life helping others experience true transformation for themselves. His story and his writings continue leading people to Jesus. 

What’s your story? When did you meet Jesus? Who needs to hear what Jesus has done for you?

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I will tell the stories of how Jesus is transforming my life.

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