A Woman named Dorcas

At Joppa there was a certain disciple named Tabitha, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was full of good works and charitable deeds which she did. But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. And since Lydda was near Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him, imploring him not to delay in coming to them. Then Peter arose and went with them. When he had come, they brought him to the upper room. And all the widows stood by him weeping, showing the tunics and garments which Dorcas had made while she was with them. But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. (Acts 9:36-42)

The above passage doesn’t tell us of her marital status. She may have been single. What stood out to me about this woman though, was how she used her time to serve others. As singles, it’s easy to become self-focused and complain about the circumstances we find ourselves in. What would it be like if we turned our focus outward to be a blessing to others?

I heard this quote, “When you were born, you were crying, and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life, so when it comes time to die, you are smiling, and everyone around you is crying.” I like that about Dorcas. I want to have the same testimony when it comes time for me to say good-bye.

“Others Lord, yes others! Let this my motto be! Help me to live for others, that I might live like Thee!”

                                                                                                                                                     

                                                                           -Jenny McKenzie