Lydia in the U.S.A.

Another fruitful weekend in more ways than one.
What is it about these "Made in America" vintage wares that warms my heart? They tell a fascinating historical tale of our country. Overcoming racism. Beauty. Healing. Grace.
Housewives all a flutter in the kitchen, setting the hospitable, welcoming table for family and friends. Labor. Fruit. Nourishment. Rest.
Letters written on a 100 year old typewriter. Words. Creativity. Information. Communication.
Each item, does it stop here? Are these gifts simply for me to muse over and generate income for my famly with thanksgiving? Well, yes. Yet, there is more.

This morning I noticed a prayer I had written a few weeks ago on a prayer card: "Matthew 5, Salt. Help me to love."This past weekend I attended a conference. Women 4 Truth. I hear a lesson on Evangelism, I hear of Lydia, several times. "One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshiper of God. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what was said by Paul." Not too much more is mentioned in the Bible about Lydia, except it is widely suspected that she used her influence and means in the marketplace to serve the early church and help spread the gospel.

Means, all means, pointing to God. Yes, entering into the market place, a light for Him. This will be a new adventure for me. Practicing righteousness. Sharing the good news. Make me a fisher of men, Lord.

Thank you God, for answering my forgotten prayer this weekend. You never forget.
Make me a Lydia. Seller of purple goods. Worshiper of God. Using her God given means to share the gospel. Make all of my American girlfriends who trust in you like Lydia, wherever we are.