“Whereupon, O king, Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19)

Heavenly Vision (Def): (Gr.): Ouranio Optasia: Celestial Gazing at Something Amazing

The Apostle was captured in a moment by the brilliant Light from Heaven, the Light of Christ exploding before him on that road that day at noon; that Light that shone brighter than the sun in the zenith of its glory; that Light that forever shown through the life of the Apostle in every aspect of his being.

This Heavenly Vision was not a one-time encounter that faded into memory; no, this Heavenly Vision, this Ouranio Optasia, was a lifetime experience that became the North Star of his mission.

There are moments in life that become defining. Paul’s Heavenly Vision of Christ became the definition of his life. “For to me to live is Christ!” (Philippians 1:21a). The all-consuming passion, “That I may know Him!” (Philippians 3:10a). The boundless purpose, “Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). The desire of the heart, “If you then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above where Christ sits on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:1-2). Obedient to the Heavenly Vision, indeed.

Despite all challenges, hardships, persecutions, trials; whether beatings, prison, shipwrecks, poisonous snake bites, cold, nakedness and peril, the Apostle could boldly say to the King at his hearing before him: “Whereupon, O king, Agrippa, I was not disobedient to the heavenly vision” (Acts 26:19).

Obedient to the Heavenly Vision is a demonstration of true faithfulness to the call of God, and the revelation of Christ in the life of a servant of the Lord to his Master. Grace, gumption, committment, dedication, consecration and surrender are the ingredience of one who has been transformed into the image and likeness of Christ Jesus.

Have you experienced your celestial gaze on something amazing? Have you had your Ouranio Optasia? Have you been captured, apprehended, arrested by the Holy Spirit and the Heavenly Vision of Christ?

The Beatific Vision awaits us where for all eternity we gaze upon His face and behold His Glory. The Vision for this lifetime comes from the Light from above. It may not be as dramatic as that of the Apostle, but seeing the Light of Christ through the eyes of faith will take you to where He is “on the right hand of God” where you are seated with Him in the heavens (cf. Ephesians 2:6).

Let this ever be set before you and may you never let it go. Obedient to the Heavenly Vision is an epitaph worthy of an Apostle and no less of you. Be true and faithful to it and great will be your reward.

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