Acts 9:36-43 (NRSV)
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Verse 36Now in Joppa there was a disciple whose name was Tabitha, which in Greek is Dorcas. She was devoted to good works and acts of charity. Verse 37At that time she became ill and died. When they had washed her, they laid her in a room upstairs. Verse 38Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, who heard that Peter was there, sent two men to him with the request, "Please come to us without delay." Verse 39So Peter got up and went with them; and when he arrived, they took him to the room upstairs. All the widows stood beside him, weeping and showing tunics and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was with them. Verse 40Peter put all of them outside, and then he knelt down and prayed. He turned to the body and said, "Tabitha, get up." Then she opened her eyes, and seeing Peter, she sat up. Verse 41He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then calling the saints and widows, he showed her to be alive. Verse 42This became known throughout Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. Verse 43Meanwhile he stayed in Joppa for some time with a certain Simon, a tanner.
Devotion
This is a story with a familiar ring. Tabitha dies. Peter is sent for and told to hurry. When he arrives, her community is weeping. But sending everyone out of the room, Peter prays and says, “Tabitha, get up,” extending his hand as she opens her eyes. The news spreads all over Joppa.
It's as though we could insert the name “Jesus” for “Peter”. We are reminded of Jesus raising the little girl. Perhaps there is even an echo of His words “whoever believes in me will do what I do.” Signs of the resurrection abound in the early church. Perhaps our western minds are too quick to think in terms of limits and impossibilities. The gospel is about God’s power to make alive what was dead. Peter and the church are entrusted with this message.
Prayer
Lord of the Resurrection, you bring life out of death. We believe. Help our unbelief.