Forward Movement is an official, non-profit agency of the Episcopal Church whose mission is to create compelling content for Christian living. Since 1935 we have published the quarterly devotional Forward Day by Day, as well as pamphlets, booklets, and books that encourage and nourish people in their lives of prayer and faith.
SATURDAY, August 21
Acts 9:10-19a. Ananias laid his hands on Saul and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on your way here, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
The encounter between Ananias and Saul is one of the miracles of the New Testament. Saul’s reputation as the arch-persecutor of the church made the mission of Ananias seem one of great danger, and the way in which this otherwise unknown Christian addressed the sightless Pharisee—“Brother Saul”—is a remarkable instance of forgiving acceptance.
In his vision, Ananias was told that this notorious enemy of the church was God’s “chosen vessel.” Paul later used this Hebraic expression for himself and other messengers of the gospel. The image is that of an earthen-ware vessel in which invaluable treasures are carried throughout the world, the ordinariness of the container being contrasted with the preciousness of its contents.
Ananias’s reluctance to visit Saul was understandable; his obedience, heroic. Yet we do well to remind ourselves of the lesson he learned. We dare not place anyone beyond the possibility of redemption. “The potentialities of development in human souls are unfathomable,” wrote psychologist William James, after studying religious experience for many years. (1975)
PRAY for the Diocese of Gambia (West Africa)
Ps 137:1-6(7-9), 144 * 104; Job 3:1-26; John 6:41-51
View the daily Lectionary Readings at Satucket.com.
Or view the Bible passages at Biblegateway.com.
A Meditation for Pentecost
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All people being from the same source are striving towards God
We don't even use or know how to use the full potential of our brains.
8If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is ...not in us. 9If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.