The Legacy of Tabitha

A Life Woven with Love: The Story of Tabitha

Today let us turn our hearts and minds today to a remarkable woman found in the book of Acts, chapter 9 and take inspiration from her. Her name was Tabitha, or Dorcas as she was also known – a name that means "gazelle," suggesting grace and beauty. But Tabitha's beauty wasn't just outward; it shone from within, radiating through her actions, as it should for us as well. 

The scripture tells us in Acts 9:36, "In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which, when translated, is Dorcas). She was always doing good and helping the poor." This simple verse paints a profound picture of a life truly lived for others. Tabitha wasn't just an acquaintance of good deeds; she was "always doing good and helping the poor." This was her essence, her consistent character.

Think about that for a moment. "Always doing good." In a world often preoccupied with self, with accumulation, with recognition, Tabitha stood out. She wasn't seeking applause or personal gain. Her focus was on those in need. She didn't just feel compassion; she acted on it. She didn't just wish things were better; she rolled up her sleeves and made them better.

We learn that her particular ministry was making clothing – tunics and other garments for the widows and the poor. Imagine the chill of a winter night, the shame of torn clothes, the despair of having nothing. And then, a warm garment, beautifully made, a tangible expression of love and care. Each stitch Tabitha sewed was a thread of compassion, each garment a blanket of dignity. These weren't just clothes; they were messages of hope.

Her impact was so profound that when she fell ill and died, the community was devastated. The widows, in particular, wept openly, showing Peter the very tunics and cloaks that Tabitha had made while she was with them. Their tears weren't just for a friend lost, but for a vital source of comfort and provision gone.

And then comes the miraculous intervention. Peter, called to Joppa, enters the room where Tabitha lies. He prays, and with a simple command, "Tabitha, get up!" she opens her eyes, takes his hand, and stands. A life woven with love, cut short by death, is miraculously restored.

But the story doesn't end there. Acts 9:42 tells us, "This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord." Tabitha's life, and her miraculous resurrection, served as a powerful testament to God's love and power.

What can we learn from Tabitha's story today?

Firstly, the power of practical love. Tabitha didn't preach long sermons or lead great crusades. Her ministry was simple, practical, and deeply impactful. Sometimes, the most profound acts of faith are found in the everyday, seemingly small gestures of kindness and service. What "garments" can we make for those around us? What practical needs can we meet?

Secondly, the lasting legacy of a life lived for others. Even in death, Tabitha's good works spoke for her. Her legacy wasn't wealth or fame, but the tangible difference she made in the lives of those less fortunate. When our time comes, what will be said of our lives? Will our "garments" of love and service be on display?

Finally, God notices and values our service. While Tabitha served without seeking recognition, God saw her heart and her hands. Her story is included in the inspired Word of God, a testament to the value He places on a life dedicated to "doing good and helping the poor."

Friends, let us be inspired by Tabitha, the disciple who was "always doing good and helping the poor." Let us not underestimate the power of a kind word, a helping hand, a selfless act. May our lives, like hers, be woven with threads of love, bringing comfort, dignity, and hope to a world so desperately in need. And may our good deeds point others to the loving God who enables us to do them.

Amen.