Dorcas

Recently while studying the book of Acts, my attention was brought to a woman of the Bible – Dorcas.  In Acts 9:36, it reads, “In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which, when translated, is Dorcas) who was always doing good and helping the poor.”

During my study, I was told that she is the first and only woman to actually be referred to as a disciple in the Bible. Wow – what a distinction! Joppa was a port city and Dorcas served the widows.  Many men were lost at sea and in that time, widows were at the bottom rung of poverty.

Dorcas had a passionate love for Jesus and others in her community.  She was living out the two greatest commandments.  I am referring to what Jesus said in Matthew 22:37-39 “Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

Her passion was evident.  We learn this as we read how Peter was asked to come to Joppa because Dorcas had become sick and died.  When he arrived at the room, all the widows were there crying and showing him some robes and clothing Dorcas had made.  They were grieving this huge loss to their community.  Can you imagine the pain they were experiencing from losing such a dear sister in Christ?  She was living as Jesus’ hands and feet, really making a difference in the lives of others and loving those who were most likely forgotten by society.

Near the end of the story, we learn that God was gracious and enabled Peter to raise her from the dead.  In Acts 9:42 we read, “This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord.”  When you think about the situation, God used this tragedy for his purposes in order to increase the kingdom.  News of this miracle spread easily because it was about a well known woman in a port city, where many people traveled in and out.

Please take the time to read this story during your quiet time this week.  I hope it inspires you the way it has inspired me.  What a testimony and legacy Dorcas left.  She was not only a learner of the Word, but a doer who really made an impact and was used to bring many others to Christ.  My prayer is that we as women at Vineyard become more like Christ and truly live out our lives so that we make a similar impact on those hurting around us.

Have a blessed week!

Melissa