One of them was Lydia from Thyatira, a merchant of expensive purple cloth, who worshipped God…She and her household were baptized, and she asked us to be her guests…she said, “come and stay at my home.” And she urged us until we agreed.
Acts 16:14-15 NLT
There are many names in the pages of the Bible which may be unfamiliar to you. What do you know of Epenetus, Phoebe, Prisca, Aquila, or Andronicus? Each one was significant enough to be named by Paul in his letters.
It is all too easy to associate being a missionary with some high calling, recognised by many. I can feel somewhat insignificant and consider my contribution to be of little value alongside the great evangelists. However, ‘evangelist’ is a specific calling for specific individuals. We are all called to be witnesses. And a missionary just happens to be a witness wherever God has placed them. So we are all missionaries.
Lydia, considered the first convert in Europe, was a simple seller of purple cloth. She ran a small business and was intrigued with the message of Paul, Silas and Timothy. She exercised her gift of hospitality, welcomed these travellers to her home and listened to their story. Once baptised we hear of her once again when she offers a home to Paul and Silas when they are released from prison. This is the simple reality of being a missionary; faithfully doing those things that come most naturally to you and lie within your ability.
Lydia’s hospitality created a space where the gospel was preached, and then a place of refuge and recovery. Lydia is not recorded as saying anything, yet is central to the work of Paul and his companions.
Jayne, my wife, works with children. I offer friendship and hospitality and meet with people. I find it the most natural thing in the world to be a missionary. As I just show up as the person I am, God works through me, without me stressing or struggling one iota.
QUESTION
What is it that you do well?
PRAYER
Take my gifts and abilities, Lord, and use them to build your kingdom and share good news to everyone I meet.
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