Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

 Lydia, A Divine Woman – Call to Serve

Acts 16 14-15 NLT
 
"One of them was Lydia from Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth, who worshiped God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. She was baptized along with other members of her household, and she asked us to be her guests. 'If you agree that I am a true believer in the Lord,' she said, 'come and stay at my home.' And she urged us until we agreed."

On his second missionary journeys, Paul arrived at Philippi, a Roman colonial city, located in modern day Greece and he found out that there were few Jews and no synagogues in Philippi. On the Sabbath day, Paul spoke to group of devout women who were praying to God outside the city by the riverbank. Lydia of Thyatira, one of the women, worshipped God. She was a successful businesswoman who sold luxury purple cloth worn by the nobles. She listened to and believed Paul’s message with an open heart and became the first European convert to Christianity. 

Lydia showed her acceptance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ by getting baptized and getting the rest of her household baptized.  Lydia also was a model of hospitality and she opened her home to Paul and his followers to be guests in her large home. Her generosity allowed Paul and his missionaries to stop at her home to rest and recharge during their journeys and Lydia showed great courage especially opening her home for Paul and Silas to recover after they got out of jail. 

Lydia was the co-founder with Paul and patron of the first church in Philippi. Her patronage and pioneering efforts brought together a community of early Christians. Lydia invited to her home those who wished to learn the teachings of Jesus Christ and she shared her good fortune providing others with fellowship and community. 

 
Prayer
Dear heavenly Father, I open my heart to hear your call for action. I pray for courage and guidance. May my home be the haven for those who work in Your name. Lord, show me how I can better serve you.   

Betzy Nireesh
St. Thomas MTC, Yonkers, NY

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