Lydia, a wealthy woman from Thyatira, a dealer of purple cloth, was on a trade mission to Jerusalem.  After hearing about the young preacher causing much controversy among the established religious leaders, she decided to meet him.  I will make up my mind about this man.  The temple leaders frown on me because I am a wealthy and free woman.   My independence blinds them so they cannot see me – a devout woman who keeps the law in my household and within my heart.  Maybe they are also blind to who this man is.       

Moving through the crowd, Lydia sees “the Jews” standing near Jesus, challenging everything he says.  She notices his demeanor.  He seems confident with his message, perhaps a little sad or disappointed, but not angry.  His message is consistent and hopeful.  He looks at peace with himself and even those who disagree with him.  The sunlight begins to fade.  The caravan Lydia has joined leaves early in the morning.  She still needs to prepare for the trip home, so she walks away, contemplating what she has heard. 

During her travels, Lydia continues pondering Jesus’ words, noticing her thoughts returning to; I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.  I do the will of the one who sent me.  I will not reject anyone.  Slowly, she brings the pieces of Jesus’ message together, integrating them with what she believes about God.  Arriving home, Lydia brings her entire household together for a celebratory meal.  Everyone wants to hear about her journey, expecting tales about the sights, sounds, and people.  Imagine their surprise when the conversation focuses on one encounter. 

I want to tell you about a Prophet named Jesus, a man sent by God.  He spoke about why God sent him -to bring everyone to God.  Jesus accepts anyone God sends to him  – even you and me if we listen to his message.  He called God Aba and talked about the last day.  Jesus says, “I am the bread of life,” offering anyone who listens God’s healing nourishment.  The temple authorities follow Jesus throughout Judea, seeing the miracles he performs and hearing his teachings, but refuse to “see” him.  I know what it is like to be not seen and how I felt in Jesus’ presence.  His message has entered my heart.  My soul did not feel hungry for the first time, and I  found water that quenches my thirst.  This Jesus is changing everything, or maybe he is simply calling us back to how the world should be – focused on God.  When Jesus comes to Thyatira, he will be welcome in this household so that you can eat the living bread and drink the water God offers.   

Everyone who believes in the Son has eternal life,
And I shall raise him on the last day, says the Lord (Jn 6:40).