May 22, 2017 Monday of the 6th Week of Easter-A

Acts of the Apostles 16:11-15

Psalm 149

John 15:26-16:4

Lydia…listened and the Lord opened her heart… Acts 16:14

“When the Advocate come…he will testify to me.”  John 15:26

Lord, Lydia came to the river perhaps to conduct business and sell her goods.  Paul came looking for a quiet place to pray.  They met, Paul spoke of you and Lydia listened.  Your Spirit moved Paul to speak and moved Lydia to listen.  With an open heart Lydia responded to the grace given her at that moment.  What a beautiful encounter and response.  She was led to support Paul and his mission and the result was that your good news came to a pagan city and it became a community of believers.  It all began with a “chance” encounter.  Lord, who will you bring me to encounter today?  How will you use my words of greeting, encouragement or support for someone struggling with life?  May I have the patience and the courage to share my faith.  May the heart of a listener be open to your grace and your message of love.  May I cooperate with your grace in whatever “chance” encounters you arrange today.  Amen.