“But Lord,” exclaimed Ananias, “I’ve heard many people talk about the terrible things this man has done to the believers in Jerusalem! And he is authorized by the leading priests to arrest everyone who calls upon your name.” But the Lord said, “Go…”
Acts 9:13-15a NLT
We have a wonderful dog in the Oratory. He is a Chorkie, a Chihuahua and Yorkie cross. Dylan is small, but believes he is a Rottweiler! When walking he demonstrates a desire to take on all other dogs, especially large ones. I’ve kindly explained that he is in fact no more than a snack to them. Yet, he pays no heed to my constructive advice and retains his belligerence on every walk.
Like Dylan, Ananias from today’s scripture reading lacks perspective. However, he is the opposite and assumes he is the human equivalent of a Chorkie, settling to live within the limits nature has placed around him. Yet he discovers that in God natural boundaries are easily suspended. He has an inkling God wants him to go pray with Saul, the persecutor and assassin of Christians. Ananias has no desire to die anytime soon. But, in reluctant obedience, he responds, confirms Saul’s conversion and prepares him for the mission that will turn the world upside down. We never hear of Ananias again, but Paul’s missionary adventures are the result of his obedience and bravery.
Mission is allowing God to lead us beyond the limits we place upon ourselves. How I perceive myself is not how God sees me. I have an inkling and must choose to pursue it in case it is of God.
Once we seek God throughout our day, we can with confidence pursue those inklings and participate in his mission. We may not often receive feedback. We may never have our name in any future narrative. Yet, the purpose of God will have moved forward as a direct result of our obedience. It is a shame that the enemy’s first and often most potent weapon is fear; yet “perfect love expels all fear” (1 John 4:18, NLT). Face down fear and fertilise the kingdom.
QUESTION
Does your perspective tend towards seeing yourself as a Chorkie or Rottweiler?
PRAYER
All-seeing God, give me your insight and perspective today. May I see challenges and opportunities through the eyes of faith and not fear.
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