2-10-21   THOUGHTS

A small group of us will study the  passage area below tonight.  The spread of the gospel and the impact of miracles will be our main focus.  But there are other lessons here.  Life is personal.  Years ago in a different place, a marvelous lady died and the congregation mourned in a positive way.  The ladies held a Dorcus party.  They all brought things that this lady had made for them and they talked of the circumstances surrounding the gift.  Little things, over time, become big things.  Kindness is not forgotten.  One person can make a difference.  We need to find what we can do, and do it with all our might.  Do you think Dorcus contributed positively to the personality of the congregation at Joppa?   These are simple lessons, but maybe powerful?  The context here is Dorcus, a female.  The lessons extend to us all.  
 
Acts 9:36-42      Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which translated in Greek is called Dorcas); this woman was abounding with deeds of kindness and charity which she continually did. 37  And it happened at that time that she fell sick and died; and when they had washed her body, they laid it in an upper room. 38  Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, having heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him, imploring him, "Do not delay in coming to us." 39  So Peter arose and went with them. When he arrived, they brought him into the upper room; and all the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing all the tunics and garments that Dorcas used to make while she was with them. 40  But Peter sent 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. 41  And he gave her his hand and raised her up; and calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42  It became known all over Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.

Titus 3:8   This is a trustworthy statement; and concerning these things I want you to speak confidently, so that those who have believed God will be careful to engage in good deeds. These things are good and profitable for men.
Matt 5:16      "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.”

My Prayer:
Lord, help us to help others.  Make our love to be shown in our kindnesses.  We pray that our light will shine in our good works so that You Oh God will receive glory.  Teach us Lord the joy of giving and serving.  We lift you up to the highest place.     In the name of Jesus       Amen