ACTS 20:22–35
Biddy Mason, born into slavery, was laid to rest in an unmarked grave in Los Angeles in 1891. After winning her freedom in 1856, she combined nursing skills with business decisions to make a small fortune. She invested in charity and helped immigrants and prisoners, leading to people lining up for help at her house. In 1872, just sixteen years out of slavery, she and her son-in-law financed the founding of the First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Los Angeles.
Biddy symbolises Paul’s teachings on hard work and helping the weak, reflecting Jesus’ words that it is more blessed to give than to receive. Paul, out of privilege rather than slavery, chose a life that led to imprisonment and martyrdom to serve Christ and others.
In 1988, a tombstone for Biddy Mason was unveiled. The occasion was attended by the Los Angeles mayor and nearly 3,000 members of her church.
For Biddy, an open hand is a blessed hand.
How can you help someone in your life who is struggling, and how can you reach out to them today?
