On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we thought people would be meeting for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had gathered there. 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. Acts 16:12-14.
Lydia lived in Philippi, a major center of trade in ancient Greece. This made Philippi a desired place to be if you had goods to sell or a vocation that depended on being in a bustling city. It was a good place for Lydia to sell her expensive purple cloth.
When we meet Lydia in the Bible, she has gathered near the Gangites River with a group of women who get together to pray and worship. This was probably because there was no synagogue in Philippi which forced these God followers to find another place to gather. These regular worship gatherings reinforced their faith and insulated these women against the forces of their pagan city.
Lydia used her opportunities in life to serve others and to grow spiritually. Here are some of the ways that this woman showed the effect that being a God worshiper had on her.
- Through her hospitality and generosity: Lydia’s immediate response to her conversion was one of hospitality. She invited Paul and his companions to stay at her home,
- By support for the ministry of the church: opening her home to Paul and his companions and , Lydia offered practical support for the early Christian ministry. Her home likely became a meeting place for the early believers in Philippi, facilitating the growth of the Christian community there.
- Lydia’s actions suggest she played an important part in the early church. Her home being the center of Christian activity implies that she might have given guidance and support to other believers.
When thinking about living in a prepared way, it is easy to see how intentional and committed Lydia was to her life of faith.
Jesus, you know what it was like to have people around you, supporting your work, and giving generously of their resources. Please help us to be that kind of people. In Jesus’ name. Amen.