Liz’s Morning Devotional: Scripture selected from Upper Room
May 14, 2023
Acts of the Apostle 9:36-43
36 In Joppa, there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek, her name is Dorcas). Her life overflowed with good works and compassionate acts on behalf of those in need. 37 About that time, though, she became so ill that she died. After they washed her body, they laid her in an upstairs room. 38 Since Lydda was near Joppa when the disciples heard that Peter was there, they sent two people to Peter. They urged, “Please come right away!” 39 Peter went with them. Upon his arrival, he was taken to the upstairs room. All the widows stood beside him, crying as they showed the tunics and other clothing Dorcas made when she was alive. 40 Peter sent everyone out of the room, then knelt and prayed. He turned to the body and said, “Tabitha, get up!” She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up. 41 He gave her his hand and raised her up. Then he called God’s holy people, including the widows, and presented her alive to them. 42 The news spread throughout Joppa, and many put their faith in the Lord. 43 Peter stayed for some time in Joppa with a certain tanner named Simon.
Good Morning; Blessed are those who are generous!
This passage provides us with a couple of amazing storylines. First, we learn about Tabitha, who is known around the region as a very generous person. She is also a disciple of Christ. I have a special connection to Tabitha because she reminds me of those who sew and create things for others. According to the story, she made high-quality clothing and joyfully shared it with those in need.
As a seamstress, you must be very meticulous about your stitches. During Tabitha’s time and for thousands of years, these stitches were made by hand because machines did not yet exist. If your stitches are too loose, your seams gap in all the wrong places. If your stitches are too tight, your thread breaks when too much tension occurs. Hand stitching a garment or a quilt is a special skill. Those who are known for high-quality work are master artisans. Then, after all that work, Tabitha lovingly shared her skillful creations with others. Those who share their blessings will receive abundant blessings from God.
The other storyline of interest is the raising of Tabitha. Remember, Jesus has ascended to heaven, so who raised Tabitha from the dead? The Apostle, Simon Peter. Peter, the one who had doubts when we began to sink into the water. Peter, the one who denied Jesus three times. Sure, Peter was preaching and teaching in the name of Jesus, and he had healed some who were sick, but this is a whole other level.
Peter believed in his calling and in the power of the Holy Spirit within him, and now Peter was ready to call upon his Savior so that this loving servant would return to life. What faith Peter shows us! We are called to share our blessings and to share Christ with the world.
Blessed God, We thank you for Your blessings. Help us share all that we have in your name. Thank You! In the name of Christ, we pray. Amen
Thought for the day: Today, I will practice generosity as a follower of Christ.
Blessings Abound! Pastor Liz
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