(story told in Acts 9:10-19; 22:12-16)
Ananias was a faithful disciple of Jesus who lived in the city of Damascus. He was known for his devotion and obedience to God. One day, the Lord spoke to him in a vision, calling his name. “Ananias!” God said. He replied, “Yes, Lord.” Then God gave him a surprising command—to go and find a man named Saul of Tarsus, who was praying and waiting after being struck blind on the road to Damascus.
Ananias was shocked. Saul was known for persecuting Christians, even arresting and harming those who followed Jesus. It must have seemed dangerous and frightening to approach him. But the Lord reassured Ananias, saying, “Go, for this man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles.” Trusting God, Ananias obeyed, showing remarkable courage and faith.
When Ananias arrived, he placed his hands on Saul and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see once more. Saul was then baptized, beginning his transformation into the apostle Paul, one of the greatest missionaries in history.
Through this simple act of obedience, Ananias became part of God’s amazing plan. His faith helped heal a man who would spread the gospel across the world.
Ananias’s story reminds us that God often calls ordinary people to do extraordinary things. Even when we’re afraid, obedience and trust can open the way for miracles and lives changed forever.