Reveal

Light reveals what darkness conceals.

We are finite. God is infinite. We have limited understanding. God is omniscient. We tend to view people as they are. God sees what people can become.  

“‘Lord,’ Ananias answered, ‘I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.'” Acts 9:13-14 (NIV)

Ananias feared the consequences of engaging a persecutor such a Saul at any level. Yet, God was inviting Ananias to participate in the redemptive process. God was bringing Ananias into the opportunity of bringing light into the darkness of Saul’s lifestyle. Ananias was to be the light bearer. However, fear dominated the path. 

“But the Lord said to Ananias, ‘Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.'” Acts 9:15-16 (NIV)

God knows a person’s heart. Nothing is hidden from God’s sight. In His grace, God sees what a sinful person can become in Christ. God had chosen the least likely candidate to be His chosen instrument. Saul’s life would be radically transformed. Will Ananias be willing to be used of God as light to reveal what darkness conceals? Is Ananias willing to release his fear of Saul and embrace God’s power to transform a persecutor into a preacher of the Gospel?

Is there anyone in your life whom you feel is beyond reach? Do you have someone near you whom transformation seems impossible? Maybe God wants to use you as His light to reveal what darkness has concealed. Maybe God wants you to participate in the redemptive process. Are you available for God’s use? Do you believe that God can use you? Do you believe that God can change that person?

Pursuing God,

Stephen Trammell
Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care