Acts 9: 36-43
In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which, when translated, is Dorcas), who was always doing good and helping the poor. About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him and urged him, “Please come at once!”
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them.
Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, “Tabitha, get up,” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called the believers and the widows and presented her to them alive. This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord. Peter stayed in Jappa for some time with a tanner named Simon.
A Thought
God gives different gifts to different people as he sees fit. Here we have a woman disciple who is gifted with serving and helping widows and the poor. Some may believe their gifts are not very important because they may seem small. But, Tabitha who was sick and died was loved and appreciated by many whom she had served. They send for Peter who prays and Tabitha is raised from the dead. Many people came to believe in the Lord because of her love, service for others and because of Peter’s obedience to pray. How are you using the gifts God has given to you?
Our Prayer
Father thank you that with you there are no small gifts. You have given each of gifts to serve and bring glory and honor to you. Help us to make wise choices, to pray, and trust you to provide ways of service for you and others, in Jesus’ name, amen.
