Daily Catholic Lectio
Monday, 26 May 2025
Sixth Week of Easter – Monday
Acts 16:11–15. John 15:26–16:4
The Advocate
The missionary activity of the apostles happened not only in synagogues or temple courtyards, but also along riverbanks and amidst the dust of the wind.
Today’s First Reading (Acts 16:11–15) presents such a moment. Paul is seen preaching not in a grand sanctuary, but beside a river outside the city of Philippi. There, a group of women are gathered—some washing clothes, some bathing, some rinsing their children, others watering their animals or cleaning large household vessels. A few might have simply sat, watching the river’s flow. Amid this ordinary rhythm, Paul’s voice rises, and people listen.
Luke names one listener in particular: Lydia.
She was a merchant—specifically, a seller of purple cloth. This detail suggests wealth and status. In those days, purple garments were worn by the elite—royalty, aristocrats, and high-ranking officials. Lydia’s trade implies her place in society and also testifies to the respect and recognition some women enjoyed in that culture.
Luke describes how Lydia fixed her eyes and heart on Paul’s preaching. With an open heart, she allowed God to touch her. Soon, she and her entire household were baptized. The baptism must have taken place right there by the river—no candles, no sponsors, no chrism, no photographers or ceremonial flair—just the quiet waters and Lydia’s sincere faith.
Thus, even a riverside can become sacred ground—a place of divine encounter and proclamation.
After accepting God’s word into her heart, Lydia invites the apostles into her home. Luke writes beautifully:
“She said, ‘If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come and stay at my house.’ And she prevailed upon us.”
Here we see another dimension of Lydia: generosity. She was likely between 20 and 25 years old. She may have been single, married, or preparing for marriage—but none of that deters her. She offers her home, making an immediate return for the gift of faith she received. This is her spirit: not to take salvation for free, but to offer something in return, with gratitude.
Lydia teaches us three lessons:
Self-worth and confidence – seen in her profession and place in society.
An open heart to new truths – shown in her conversion.
A welcoming spirit toward others – demonstrated in hosting the apostles.
As of today, the Gospel readings begin preparing us for the Ascension and Pentecost.
In today’s Gospel (John 15:26–16:4), Jesus speaks of the coming Advocate, the Holy Spirit:
“When the Advocate comes, whom I will send from the Father, the Spirit of truth… he will testify on my behalf.”
The disciples likely didn’t fully understand these words. Perhaps they thought, “Why do we need an Advocate if You are still with us?” or “Are You going away?”
The Greek word for “Advocate” is Parakletos, derived from paraklesis—meaning comfort, consolation, counsel, legal intercession, or support. It’s a courtroom term: someone who speaks in your defense, pleads your case, or supports you in trial.
Why would I appoint someone to speak for me in court?
Because they know the law better than I do.
Because they can argue my case with clarity and conviction.
Above all, because they will not abandon me.
That’s what Jesus promises: not a distant helper, but one who remains near, even within.
So who is this Advocate?
On one hand, the Advocate is the flame of faith burning within us. It is not the naïve belief that “nothing will go wrong,” but the boldness to say, “Even if something does go wrong, I will face it.”
On the other hand, the Advocate is a divine presence beside us—a steady voice within, helping us stand, speak, and persevere.
Conclusion
Paul found a listener in Lydia. God found a home in her heart. She found her place in the mission of the Gospel. And in every act of hospitality, courage, or conversion, the Spirit—the Advocate—is quietly at work.
Let us, like Lydia, listen with open hearts. Let us welcome the Spirit with readiness. Let us live the Gospel at the riversides of our daily lives.
Fr. Yesu Karunainidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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