WHEN YOU MET JESUS

“As I was journeying to Damascus … I saw on the way a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, shining all around me and those who were journeying with me. And when we had all fallen to the ground, I heard a voice.”—Acts 26:12–14 NASB

Many years later, as he spoke to King Agrippa, Paul perfectly remembered the moment he met Jesus. He remembered every word. He had told his testimony before, but his enthusiasm for the story never seemed to waver.

He remembered how Jesus knew him personally and called him by name, “Saul, Saul.” He identified Himself by name: “I am Jesus whom you are persecuting.” He told Saul (later Paul) about the mission to which he had been called: “Get up and stand on your feet.” He revealed he had a special appointment and would be “a witness not only to the things in which you have seen Me, but also to the things in which I will appear to you” (vs. 14–16).

He was sending Paul to both Jews and Gentiles and called him “to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God” (v. 18). He was to announce that Jesus could provide forgiveness of sins and all who were saved would be given an inheritance.

How clearly do you remember the day you met Jesus? Look back and think about what He has done for you. What have you learned? What has He spoken to you and revealed to you? How have you changed? Where is He leading you?

Be ready to share your testimony with others. Share from your heart about Jesus and what He means to you.

Reflection Question: Write a summary of your salvation story.

THE WAY

“I confess this to you, that according to the Way, which they call a sect, I do serve the God of our fathers.”—Acts 24:14 NASB

Sometime in early church history, followers of Jesus collectively began to be called “the Way.” This became a simple description that summarized the Christian life. It reminds us that life is a journey. We do not arrive instantly at our destination. We travel through places and times. We go through experiences. We learn through the places we have visited, the experiences we have gone through, and the mistakes we have made.

Describing our journey as “the Way” demonstrates that there are no instant cures. No one has infinite or complete knowledge. Even a man as wise as Paul knew he was on a journey, learning step by step how to follow Jesus.

The word way reminds us that we are on a path through life. We have choices regarding the roads we travel, the things we do, the places we go, and the decisions we make. People who are Christians have chosen a common path—“the Way.” They have decided to follow Jesus, who is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). We obey His Word.

“The way” reminds us that we have a destination. Many people spend their lives wandering around, moving toward unsure destinations, or pursuing the wrong destination. But our way leads somewhere specific. We are moving toward eternity with Jesus!

Today, remember that you are part of “the Way” on a journey with Jesus. Let Him direct your steps. Follow Him.

Reflection Question: Reflect on your journey so far with Jesus.