Meet the Mentors
Their stories, our courage - Lydia and more
How did a woman from 2000 years ago become my mentor? The power of a story.
Lydia of Thyatira
In a bustling Roman colony in the 1st Century, a woman named Lydia of Thyatira made a bold decision (Acts 16: 11-15, 40). God opened her heart and with one courageous step in faith, she transformed her own life and her community. Lydia’s story has been all but invisible, but my soil scientist instincts got me digging deep into the details and patterns. And, guess what? There is more to her story.
Lydia was a merchant of purple cloth, potentially wealthy, and a leader. She was a strong, independent outspoken woman of faith that pioneered fearlessly into her calling and started a house church that served as an anchor location for her community. She contributed her resources to support and expand the movement of what would later become known as Christianity (Philippians 1:3-6, 4:14-20).
Lydia as a Mentor
Her leadership style was bold and driven by faith. Words that come to mind are courageous, outspoken, pioneering, decisive, and free. Her story:
Shows us that women leading in faith can use their voices and be direct
Helps us feel courageous, empowered, and ready to take action.
Encourages us to speak out and lead when the moment comes.
Reminds us that leadership also means creating a space of belonging for encouraging others.
My study of Lydia’s story challenged me: What would it be like if I lived with that same courage today? What would it look like if we all did? Lydia’s story feels more important than ever as we seek hope and innovation in difficult times.
Lydia’s boldness stands as a reminder: faith is alive, and renewal begins in small, courageous steps that we can take each day. And, the courage we grow is contagious, spreading to our friends and beyond.
That’s The Lydia Effect.
Other Mentors (coming soon)
As the journey progresses, we will meet more mentors on the way. There are three more that play a significant role in The Lydia Effect. Stay tuned and check out the chapters that are already published here.
So excited for you AND PROUD of you Laura!