TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL
In this season of reflection and prayer, we find ourselves celebrating the profound impact of those who bear witness to the divine. It is a time when individuals are engaging in various forms of prayer, often motivated by fear or uncertainty. However, the most effective approach to prayer during this period is to come from a place of tranquility, recognizing that God has already paved the way for us and is in the process of perfecting our circumstances. When we pray from this state of rest, we do so with faith, allowing our supplications to align with God’s will. This alignment is crucial, as it enables us to offer prayers that not only resonate with our hearts but also bring joy to God.
Amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the myriad issues facing the world today, God is actively seeking to draw individuals closer to Him. The events unfolding around us serve as a wake-up call, prompting many to reassess their lives and consider their spiritual journeys. This is an opportune moment to reflect on what God envisions for each of us, which should, in turn, influence our prayer practices. One of the most significant prayers we can utter during this time is akin to the plea made by Isaiah in chapter 6, verse 8, where he declared, “Here I am, send me.” This prayer encapsulates our willingness to be instruments of God’s purpose, whether we have been called before or are about to be called now. I encourage everyone to express this desire, regardless of the platform from which you are engaging, by affirming your readiness to be sent forth.
When an individual is on a divine mission, it often presents a unique opportunity for others to seek a visitation. This visitation occurs when God sends individuals to fulfill specific needs, particularly the profound need for reconciliation with our Creator. The Bible emphasizes that we have been entrusted with the ministry of reconciliation, a sacred responsibility to guide others back to God. This mission is one of the most significant undertakings in our lives, as we strive to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with those who are spiritually lost, suffering, and facing eternal separation from God. Our role is to extend God’s hand to those in need, facilitating their return to a relationship with Him.
This evening, we gather to honor those who have played pivotal roles in our spiritual journeys, often referred to as star witnesses. Many of us have submitted names of individuals who have significantly impacted our paths to salvation, and we will celebrate their contributions during this service. I would like to take a moment to share my personal testimony of salvation, alongside the stories of two others who will recount their experiences and the individuals who reached out to them. As we prepare for this meaningful gathering, I encourage everyone to settle in, as we will engage in prayer and partake in communion together. Please ensure you have your communion elements ready, as we embark on this spiritual journey collectively.
Many years ago, approximately three decades in the past, I had a significant experience with a group of young individuals during my time as a student in a boarding school. Coming from a Muslim background, I found myself in high school surrounded by friends who were not only kind but also intellectually gifted. We engaged in various academic activities together, including participation in the Literary and Debating Society, where we competed in debates and science competitions. It became evident to me that these peers were among the brightest students at Government College in Ibadan. Their approach to life began to challenge my own perspectives, prompting me to reflect on my values and choices.
For instance, during our study sessions, my friends would often express a desire to pray together before delving into our academic work. As a Muslim, I would typically sit quietly in a corner while they recited prayers and hymns, observing their camaraderie and devotion. This experience led me to ponder the nature of their character, as they consistently chose to abstain from the reckless behaviors that many of our peers engaged in, such as sneaking out of the boarding house for frivolous escapades or attempting to visit the nearby girls’ school. Instead, these individuals exhibited a remarkable sense of responsibility and integrity, consistently making choices that reflected their strong moral compass. Their genuine curiosity about my faith further deepened our connection, as they began to engage me in discussions that encouraged me to explore my beliefs more profoundly.
During a period when I was regularly attending the mosque and practicing the teachings I had received at home, I encountered several challenges that tested my beliefs. One significant moment occurred during an endurance trek, where a friend, likely Segun Salami, engaged me in a discussion about prophecy. As a young Muslim, my understanding of prophecy was quite limited, and I was intrigued when he began to explain concepts I could grasp, such as Nostradamus and his predictions, as well as the prophetic nature of the Bible. Our conversation lasted for about an hour, during which he highlighted how many prophecies had been fulfilled and others that were yet to come, capturing my interest and prompting further contemplation.
Upon returning to the boarding house, I was unaware that a group of friends had collectively decided to share the gospel with me, initiating a series of discussions that would profoundly impact my perspective. Gboyega, who shared my room, along with other close friends like Muyiwa, Olumide Williams, and Dotun Okunsanya, began to reach out to me about their faith in Christ. One Friday afternoon, after attending the jumat service at the mosque, I was approached by one of them on my way back to the hostel. He invited me to a special fellowship event, and although I initially declined, his persistence led me to eventually attend, marking a pivotal moment in my spiritual journey.
The gathering took place on a Friday, characterized as a student fellowship, during which an adult pastor from the local community, Pastor Shola Oladele, played a significant role. At that time, he was not only a teacher but also a pivotal figure in uniting students through this fellowship. Pastor Shola was instrumental in organizing the events, and as I became more acquainted with him, I developed a close relationship with him. He was among the first individuals to guide me in my spiritual journey, alongside several other young individuals. Eventually, he ascended to the position of principal at the school, and I felt honored to be invited to his retirement celebration, which took place earlier last year. Following his retirement from civil service, he dedicated himself fully to pastoral work and established a ministry in Ibadan that focuses on outreach to young people.
Reflecting on my spiritual journey, I recognize the profound impact of those who have influenced my faith, particularly Pastor Shola Oladele, whom I hold in high regard for his lifelong commitment to mentoring youth. Alongside him, my friends have also played crucial roles as witnesses to Christ in my life. It has been thirty years since that pivotal moment, and I remain steadfast in my faith, experiencing God’s guidance in ways I could never have anticipated. In this season, it is essential to remember that our prayers should extend beyond personal needs; we must also be attuned to God’s desires. The scripture from Isaiah 60 encourages us to rise and shine, for the glory of God is upon us, even as darkness envelops the world. God calls us to be vessels of light, and as we seek His provision, we should also be mindful of the joy in heaven over every soul that repents, reminding us of our responsibility to respond to His call.
The desire to be utilized for a greater purpose is inherent in many individuals, yet the journey toward fulfilling that purpose can often be fraught with challenges and discomfort.
It is not uncommon for some to identify as introverts, expressing uncertainty about their ability to engage with others. However, the essence of this matter transcends personality types; what truly matters is the unique potential within each person. There exists a capacity for connection, a talent or resource that can be harnessed to facilitate others’ relationships with the divine. This evening, I wish to delve into this concept, emphasizing the significance of recognizing and embracing the gifts we possess that can serve a higher calling.
To illustrate this point, I turn to the narrative found in the Book of Acts, specifically Chapter 9, which recounts the transformation of Saul of Tarsus, who would later be known as the Apostle Paul. Initially, Saul was a fervent adversary of the early Christian movement, akin to a radical leader inciting violence against believers. His involvement in the stoning of Stephen, the first martyr, exemplifies his zealous opposition; he was present, collecting the garments of those who executed the act, thereby facilitating their actions. In Acts 9:1, we see Saul continuing his campaign against the followers of Christ, seeking authorization from the high priest to apprehend those identified as belonging to “The Way,” a term used to describe early Christians, reflecting Jesus’ declaration that He is the way to salvation. Saul’s mission was to bind and bring these individuals to Jerusalem, showcasing his role as a formidable enemy of the gospel before his eventual transformation into one of its most ardent proponents.
The high priest granted him permission to proceed with his mission, and as described in verse 3, the Bible recounts that while he was on his way to Damascus, he was intent on carrying out a nefarious agenda. His objective was to apprehend individuals who belonged to The Way, followers of Jesus Christ, and to bring them back to Jerusalem in chains. However, as he approached Damascus, an unexpected brilliance enveloped him, causing him to fall to the ground. In that moment, he heard a voice addressing him, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” Recognizing the authority of the voice that had brought him to the ground, he responded with a trembling inquiry, “Who are you, Lord?” The voice identified itself as Jesus, whom Saul was actively persecuting, and added a profound statement about the futility of resisting divine will.
In this moment of revelation, Saul, filled with fear and astonishment, asked, “Lord, what do you want me to do?” This plea resonates with many individuals today who find themselves grappling with various adversities, including economic hardships, health crises, and personal struggles. Countless people across the globe are experiencing their own metaphorical falls, whether it be through financial ruin, job loss, or emotional turmoil. They echo Saul’s question, seeking guidance and purpose amid their trials. The scripture highlights this universal yearning for direction, as many are weary of their circumstances—be it a life marred by addiction, a series of unfulfilling relationships, or a constant search for validation. In their desperation, they too are asking, “What do you want from me?” as they seek a way out of their struggles and a path toward redemption.
The ongoing struggle with debilitating health issues can lead to a profound sense of fatigue and emotional turmoil. Many individuals find themselves in a state of despair, grappling with feelings of depression stemming from their circumstances and internal conflicts. They often wish for guidance on how to navigate their challenges, rather than succumbing to a monotonous routine of sleeping late, drinking, or mindlessly consuming entertainment. This cycle of inactivity can feel like a slow erosion of their days, leaving them yearning for a way out of their current predicament. The Apostle Paul’s experience mirrors this sentiment; he too faced a moment of deep confusion and fear, prompting him to seek divine direction by asking, “Lord, what do you want me to do?” The response he received was clear: he was instructed to rise and proceed into the city, where further guidance awaited him.
This narrative highlights a crucial aspect of faith and human interaction in the journey of belief. While it is often assumed that only divine intervention can reach those who are staunchly opposed to faith, the story of Saul illustrates that human involvement remains essential. Despite the powerful encounter Saul had with Christ, he was directed to seek out a human disciple, Ananias, who would provide the necessary support and instruction. Ananias, described simply as a disciple rather than a figure of high religious authority, exemplifies the role that ordinary individuals play in the spiritual awakening of others. This underscores the importance of community and personal connection in the process of transformation, suggesting that even the most hardened hearts can be touched through the compassionate actions of those who are willing to serve.
A particular disciple, whether named Joel, Ade, Emeka, or any other, is listening to this message tonight. The scripture refers to a disciple in Damascus, a place that can symbolize various locations such as Lagos, Port Harcourt, London, Houston, Toronto, or Dubai. It could even represent northern Nigeria in Damaturu. This disciple was an ordinary individual, simply going about his life in the city where Saul was traveling. The Bible recounts that God communicated with him through a vision, calling him Ananias. His immediate response, “Here I am, Lord,” exemplifies what I term radical availability, a concept I discussed in my sermon last Sunday. This readiness to respond to God’s call is crucial, as it demonstrates a willingness to serve and act according to divine guidance.
The Lord instructed Ananias to rise and go to a street called Straight, where he would find a man named Saul of Tarsus, who was praying earnestly. Saul had experienced a profound transformation, having been struck down and rendered blind, yet he was seeking direction from God, asking, “Lord, what would you have me do?” God had intentionally intervened in Saul’s life, preparing him for a significant purpose, but He required Ananias to be attuned to His voice and willing to minister to Saul. God provided Ananias with specific details, assuring him that Saul had already seen a vision of a man named Ananias coming to restore his sight. This narrative illustrates a divine orchestration of events, where both Saul’s receptive heart and Ananias’s obedience played pivotal roles in the unfolding of God’s plan.
The restoration of sight serves as a profound metaphor, symbolizing a divine opportunity for renewal and transformation. It illustrates the notion that God, in His infinite wisdom, grants individuals a second chance at life, allowing them to begin anew. In this context, the act of regaining sight signifies a pivotal moment where Saul, once blinded by his destructive ways, is poised to embrace a new identity as Paul. This transition represents not merely a change in name but a fundamental rebranding of purpose, as Saul shifts from being a figure of persecution to becoming a champion for the Kingdom of God. Such divine interventions highlight the importance of being receptive to God’s calling, as He often seeks out ordinary individuals to fulfill His extraordinary plans.
Ananias, a humble disciple, exemplifies this principle of availability in the face of daunting challenges. Despite his apprehensions regarding Saul’s notorious reputation for harming believers, Ananias ultimately responds to God’s directive. His initial reluctance mirrors the common human tendency to hesitate when faced with daunting tasks, particularly when they involve individuals perceived as threatening or dangerous. This scenario resonates with contemporary experiences, where individuals may feel compelled to share their faith or offer support to those in positions of authority or influence, yet hesitate due to fear of repercussions. However, it is essential to recognize that God may be orchestrating these encounters for a greater purpose, potentially leading to transformative outcomes that extend beyond our immediate understanding.
In various circumstances, one may encounter individuals who play contrasting roles within a community, such as a benefactor or a person perceived as a threat. It is not uncommon to have neighbors who may harbor animosity towards one’s beliefs. However, the divine message encourages us to extend love and compassion to these individuals, as this approach may serve as a conduit for sharing the teachings of faith. This notion is exemplified in the story of Ananias, who, despite his reservations about Saul’s notorious reputation and authority to persecute Christians, was called to open his heart and embrace the task set before him. Ananias candidly expressed his concerns regarding Saul’s character, acknowledging the challenges posed by his past actions, yet he ultimately chose to obey the divine directive.
The scripture reveals that the Lord reassured Ananias, designating Saul as a chosen instrument to spread His name among diverse groups, including Gentiles and leaders. Following this divine instruction, Ananias proceeded to Saul’s location, demonstrating obedience and faith. Upon entering the house, he addressed Saul with warmth, referring to him as “brother,” and conveyed the message that Jesus had sent him to restore his sight and fill him with the Holy Spirit. This interaction highlights the simplicity and power of faith-filled words; Ananias’s prayer was not elaborate but rather a straightforward declaration of God’s purpose. The immediate transformation in Saul, marked by the removal of scales from his eyes and his subsequent baptism, underscores the profound impact that a humble act of obedience can have in the realm of spiritual awakening and salvation.
He was not a renowned healer or a miracle worker; rather, he was an ordinary disciple who simply placed his hand upon another. In that moment, God was seeking someone to fulfill His purpose, and it could very well be you during this season. I encourage you to express your agreement with this prayer by typing “amen” if you are present and engaged. May the Lord find you ready and willing to be used in His service this season, in the name of Jesus. All that Ananias needed to do was to show up and convey the message he received from God to Saul. By merely acting as a witness, he became a pivotal figure in the narrative of the Apostle Paul, who would go on to author a significant portion of the New Testament. The story of Paul cannot be recounted without acknowledging Ananias, who approached Saul and declared, “Brother Saul, Jesus Christ, who encountered you on your journey, has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Upon hearing this, Saul’s sight was restored, and he was baptized without delay.
This illustrates how God often sends individuals to fulfill His divine plans in seemingly simple ways.
You may anticipate a complex mission, but it can be as straightforward as being present and obedient. Throughout the Scriptures, we see God dispatching people for His purposes; for instance, in Exodus chapter 3, He sent Moses as a response to the cries of the Israelites. Moses initially believed the task would be daunting, yet God asked him what he had in his hand—a rod. When Moses threw it down, it transformed into a snake, and God instructed him to pick it up by the tail. This act demonstrated that God had already equipped Moses with the necessary tools to accomplish the mission. Just as the Israelites cried out to God in their distress, He responded by sending Moses, highlighting that divine intervention often comes through ordinary individuals who are willing to answer the call.
Throughout the Bible, one can observe a recurring theme of God directing individuals to fulfill His purposes. In Acts of the Apostles, particularly in chapter 10, we witness God instructing Peter to visit the home of Cornelius, a Gentile. This directive was not without its challenges, as Peter harbored reservations about associating with non-Jews. His reluctance mirrors the attitudes some may hold today, where individuals might hesitate to engage with those they perceive as different or unworthy. For instance, God may be prompting someone to reach out to an individual struggling with addiction or someone who appears disheveled, yet they resist, believing they are above such interactions. Peter’s initial response reflects a common human tendency to draw boundaries based on social status or personal biases, yet God’s message was clear: do not label what I have made clean as unclean.
Moreover, the narrative continues with the account of Philip, a newly appointed deacon who was open to divine guidance. In Acts chapter 8, Philip is instructed by God to approach a specific road where he encounters the Ethiopian eunuch, a significant figure in the royal court of Candace, Queen of Ethiopia. This encounter illustrates the importance of being attuned to God’s voice and the opportunities that arise from obedience. Philip’s willingness to engage with the eunuch, who had traveled to Jerusalem to worship, underscores the potential impact of reaching out to those in our communities, workplaces, or families. It raises the question of whom God might be urging us to connect with during this season, suggesting that there may be vital conversations or revelations awaiting us if we choose to act on these divine nudges.
There are individuals among us who are called to engage with influential figures, as well as those who may be considered rebellious, much like Saul, who later transformed into the Apostle Paul. In the account found in Acts of the Apostles, specifically chapter 8, we observe Philip being directed by God to an influential individual, the Ethiopian eunuch. This man was engrossed in reading the Scriptures but struggled to comprehend their meaning. When Philip approached him and inquired, “Understandest thou what thou readest?” the eunuch admitted his confusion, stating that he could not grasp the text without someone to guide him. This moment of divine orchestration highlights the importance of being open to God’s calling and the willingness to assist others in their spiritual journeys.
Furthermore, the narrative of Elijah in 1 Kings 17 illustrates the reciprocal nature of divine assignments. Elijah faced a pressing need for sustenance, and when the brook he relied upon dried up, God instructed him to go to Zarephath, where a widow had been designated to provide for him. This scenario underscores the interconnectedness of our needs; Elijah required the widow’s support, while she, in turn, needed Elijah’s presence and the blessings he brought as a prophet of God. This relationship exemplifies the broader principle that God not only sends individuals to us for our benefit but also desires to use us as instruments to reach others. It is essential to reflect on whom we have been sent to and who has been sent to us, recognizing that this divine exchange is fundamental to our spiritual growth and community.
God calls upon us to serve as His witnesses, as articulated in Acts 1:8, which states that we will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon us, enabling us to bear witness for Him. This mission begins within our immediate circles, such as our families and local communities, and then extends outward to broader regions. The scripture emphasizes a progression from Jerusalem to Judea, and then to Samaria, illustrating the importance of reaching both familiar and unfamiliar territories. The parable of the Good Samaritan serves as a poignant example of this outreach, where a Samaritan, despite the historical animosity between Jews and Samaritans, transcended societal barriers to assist a Jewish man in distress. This narrative, found in Luke 10:25-40, highlights the essence of neighborly love and the imperative to act compassionately, regardless of cultural or ethnic differences.
In the context of our current circumstances, the question arises: have we recently acted as a neighbor to someone in need? Just as the widow in the story of Elijah provided for the prophet during a time of famine, leading to her own sustenance, we too are called to respond to the needs of others. This season may be characterized by uncertainty and challenges, yet it is also an opportunity for individuals to prioritize God’s work by being attentive to the needs around them. By committing to serve wherever God leads us, we can become instruments of His provision and grace, ensuring that we do not only focus on our own needs but also on the needs of those around us.
I aspire to serve as a prominent witness for those who will experience divine protection during this season. They will be enveloped in the presence of God, assured that His hand is upon them. Even amidst uncertainty, they will not succumb to fear, for they will trust that God is orchestrating all circumstances for their benefit. This journey is one of faith, characterized by a commitment to listening to God and fulfilling His will. It is my belief that this is the path God desires for each of us during this time. Have you ever felt the touch of an angel or received assistance from someone sent by God? Now is the moment for you to embody that angelic presence for someone else. It is imperative that we all prepare ourselves to be the witnesses that God seeks.
As we prepare to enter a time of prayer, I would like to share a verse that has resonated deeply with me, specifically Psalm 68:6. In the New King James Version, it states that God places the solitary in families and liberates those who are bound, while the rebellious remain in desolation. The New Living Translation echoes this sentiment, emphasizing that God places the lonely in families, frees the prisoners, and grants them joy. In this season, many individuals find themselves imprisoned by various struggles, and God is eager to release them into joy. He may choose to use us as instruments of this divine purpose, as we could be the family that welcomes a lonely soul. In the aftermath of the pandemic, many will experience transitions—whether through job changes or relocations—and God is intent on providing them with a sense of belonging and stability.
In this season, there is a divine intention for us to engage in the mission of spreading the gospel, as it is through this act that we fulfill God’s purpose. The essence of our calling lies in leading others to the profound understanding of the saving grace found in our Lord Jesus Christ. God is orchestrating circumstances to connect lonely individuals with families, and we are those families. The command to love the Lord with all our heart and mind extends to loving our neighbors as ourselves. This raises an important question: who is the neighbor that God is guiding you towards during this time? It is crucial to open your heart to His leading, allowing Him to reveal the individuals whose lives you are meant to touch.
As we gather in prayer, let us focus on interceding for those who are in need of salvation, including family members and friends who may be seeking hope. This evening presents a unique opportunity for us to stand in the gap for them. The scripture from Psalm 2:8 reminds us of the power of asking; it states that if we ask, God will grant us the nations as our inheritance. This promise emphasizes the importance of prayer in discerning the specific individuals God is calling us to reach out to. As we bow our heads in prayer, let us invite God to place names and faces in our hearts, guiding us in our mission to bring others into the light of His grace.