Reflection: Dorcas
For further reading see Acts 9:36-43
Tabitha (Dorcas) is obviously valued by her community. When she dies, they send for Peter, urging him to come. Peter holds her in the same value; he goes straight away. We are given details which reveal why she is so valued. She was “always doing good and helping the poor”. When Peter gets there, he is shown some evidence of her work in the community, in the clothes she made. She reminds me of my grandmother, who was so known for helping people; I have run into many who tell how she was significant for the awakening and strengthening of their faith. We admire eloquent speakers and eminent leaders. Tabitha’s service is of the kind that doesn’t receive the same kind of prominence, and yet is so meaningful in the lives of all those who experience it. In meeting the needs of others, we show them the God who provides.
Question: How could you be more alert to the needs of people in your church, community, and the world?
Prayer: Lord, we confess that we often value the more superficially glamour ministries. Help us to see the beauty of those who thoughtfully perceive and meet needs. Amen.