Following Faith, Finding Peace
Lydia of Thyatira
A gentle breeze drifted through the colonnaded courtyard as Lydia kneeled to pray. The merchant woman had built a thriving business dyeing and selling royal purple fabrics that adorned the elites of Philippi. Yet there had been a yearning in her soul. A god-worshipper she recalled the stranger who approached her speaking of spiritual rebirth through trust in the Messiah – how her heart had quickened, feeling destiny in that moment. This teacher offered the new life her spirit restlessly sought. She believed, was baptized, and her transformed identity rippled outward, impacting her household and community.
Recently, my Bible study group examined Lydia Encounters Jesus in Worship. It’s a lesson in Sacred Encounters: The Power and Presence of Jesus Christ in Luke-Acts by Olive Mahabir which includes religious art to help learning. I am grateful for a thoughtful study leader and companions who embody the reign of God. In today’s letter, I share an Advent inspiration and blessing from Lydia and her Household (Acts 16:11-15).