After some time had passed, the Jews plotted to kill I’m, but their plot became known to Saul. They were watching the gates day and night so that they might kill him; but His disciples too him by night and let him down through an opening in the wall, lowering him in a basket. When he had come to Jerusalem, he attempted to join the disciples, and they were all afraid of him, for they did not believe that he was a disciple. Acts 9:23-26

Saul leaves Damascus by the believer’s putting him into a merchandise basket and lowering him down the walls to avoid the plotting Jews wanting to catch him and kill him. Three years later he comes to Jerusalem for a first visit (Gal. 1:15) so Saul’s time with the Christians in Damascus has entailed solidifying friendships in Christ, fueled by the Holy Spirit preaching in the synagogue, listening and learning from Jesus, and heartfelt conviction to his purpose to preach to the Gentiles the victory of Christ’s love.

Were you to set a three year goal to prepare for the purpose in Christ what would you choose? Immersion and learning of the Scriptures, forming Christian oneness in community with Christ’s loving acceptance as foundation, discovering the depth of trusting our Lord to strengthen you in faith to go forward each day, or would it be all of these and added to these the practice of solitary and community prayer that is like the rudder on a boat. Trust in Christ as you are readied for something next.