Homily: May 6, 2024, Monday of the sixth week of Easter (Lydia)

 “One of them, a woman named Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth, from the city of Thyatira, a worshiper of God, listened, and the Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what Paul was saying.”

The Easter readings are truly remarkable. We witness how the Holy Spirit did amazing works through the acts of the apostles. The apostles simply went about sharing about the life of Jesus and spreading the good news. They were unperturbed by rejections or persecutions, and their persistence and bold proclamations won more hearts than objections. And we also see how the Holy Spirit converts not always in the same way but through many ways according to the charisms of the preachers as well as the unique situations of the listeners. 

On Pentecost day, we saw a massive conversion of three thousand people all in one day through one event. Today we encounter the story of a single conversion: that of Lydia, a woman from Thyatira. We are told she was a dealer in purple cloth, that meant she had dealings with the wealthy households in Philippi because in those times, only the rich and powerful wore and used dyed textiles, especially in purple.

That single conversion was pivotal in bringing the gospel to the influential people in Philippi and likely back to her own city of Thyatira, where she must be considered a successful businesswoman and respected for her capabilities.

Lydia's conversion mirrors that of the Samaritan woman, whose personal encounter with Jesus led to the conversion of an entire city. The Holy Spirit indeed works in many ways through anyone who is open to receive.

Proclaiming the good news is not without its challenges and oppositions, as Jesus had forewarned his disciples. However, we are called to preach through both our words and deeds, integrating the gospel of life and love, and we are called to preach where the Holy Spirit leads.

The Holy Spirit guides us, opening doors, transforming minds, and converting hearts, in His time, in His way. He needs the preacher to be willing to trust and follow, and the listener to be willing to listen and believe.

Let us never shy away from sharing the gospel of Jesus when the Spirit prompts and presents us the opportunity. Let us not judge situations or people with our own dull logic or intellect, for the Spirit is creative and dynamic in seeking out those who are ready. When we co-operate with the Holy Spirit, be ready to witness miracles.

Amen.