27 April 2027: Today was our journey to Philippi in the north east of Macedonia to walk as near as we could in the footsteps of the Apostle Paul.But first outside what were once the walls of the city of Philippi we came to a place on the River Zygaktis where Paul preached the Gospel to a prominent woman of Thyatira named Lydia ,and her entourage.
The significance of that first conversion and baptism of a native European could not be lost on our small group of pilgrims, the celebration of Holy Mass to receive the Holy Eucharist and to renew our baptismal vows took one back in time to that extraordinary occasion,almost as if we were present as witnesses to the blessed Apostle providing Lydia the means to salvation .
14 A certain woman named Lydia, a worshipper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul. When she and her household were baptized, she urged us, saying, ‘If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come and stay at my home’ -(Acts 16:14-15)
On to the ancient agora of Philippi and the surrounding ruins of the Roman city .Paul’s presence felt again as we stood outside the cave like cell where he was held by the authorities.His tenacity and determination to spread the Good News to the gentiles whilst suffering at the hands of the unbelievers .
‘Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus’ (Philippians 4:6-7).
Isn’t this similarly our purpose in this world to endure for our faith?
Reflection by Robert and Donna Boston, Gold Coast, Queensland.