Sunday, September 2, 2018

Dorcas the encourager

36In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. 37About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. 38Lydda 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!”
39Peter 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.
40Peter 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. 41He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive. 42This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord.43Peter stayed in Joppa for some time with a tanner named Simon. (Acts 9)

Thoughts: Dorcas/Tabitha, was a righteous and encouraging person.  She died and the mourners were showing Peter what she had done.  She was known as someone who gave to the poor (alms).  she was always doing good to others.  The widows showed him clothes she had made for them.  In those days there was no welfare or life insurance programs.  The widows were the most helpless and needy.  Dorcas took care of them.  God wanted to reward her in the most visible impressive way.  So Peter raised her from the dead.  God cares for those who refresh and encourage others.  

Prayer: Lord, help me to be someone who cares for those in need. 

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