The Mercy of God

In Acts 9, we see a man called Saul of Tarsus, one of the most religious men who ever lived, traveling to Damascus. Why was he making this journey?

Saul was so full of hatred toward Jesus that he determinedly persecuted the church of God, even outside of Jewish territory. So he was on his way to Damascus seeking to destroy the Lord’s people.

“Then Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked letters from him to the synagogues of Damascus, so that if he found any who were of the Way, whether men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem” (Acts 9:1-2, NKJV). 

Consider God’s action toward this man who later became the greatest Christian evangelist who ever lived. Suddenly, a stunningly bright light from heaven shone all around him: “As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground…” (Acts 9:3-4). Saul would later say, “I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day” (Acts 23:1).

What was the purpose of this bright light? To confound Saul? To put him under guilt and condemnation? To destroy him? To pronounce wrath and judgment on him? No, it was to announce that his iniquity was forgiven and his sins were covered.

Let us picture Saul lying prostrate before the shining light and hearing the voice of Jesus. Instead of hearing denunciation from a holy God for the path he was on, he heard the startling words, “I am Jesus whom you persecute!” There was not a word about the wicked manner in which Saul was living, the persecution and threats. Why was this? Because the one he persecuted was his greatest friend.

Beloved, this same Jesus offers us the same mercy. Deserving judgment, we hear him say, “I am Jesus, your redeemer.” Thank him this day for the mercy he has shown to you.