A Daily Devotion for Monday, June 29
- ontrakk
- Jun 29
- 2 min read
Acts 9:36-42
In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him and urged him, “Please come at once!”
Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them.
Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, “Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive. This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord.
As I approach retirement, I think a lot about how I will use all of the free time! Even now, with three and four day weekends becoming more and more frequent, on Monday I find myself enjoying going back to the office for some organized, productive work. In a few months, that will be gone, and I will need to continue some sort of productivity. I have some ideas, but it takes commitment and perseverance to stick to a plan. Dorcas made clothing for others, and “was always doing good and helping the poor.” I hope that I can continue to give some time to others, to help and to serve where there is need. Music seems to be the path God is lighting up for me.
Holy Lord, help me to stick with my music, and find ways to reach more people. You are always with me, paving the way, and I am so thankful! Amen
Becky, transforming
Acts 9:36-42
Each time I read these passages or hear of the story of Dorcas, I think about the Dorcas Drake Foundation here in Jacksonville. Dorcas Drake founded The Dorcas Drake Christmas Party where she, through donations, hosted a party for underprivileged children, children whom may not have otherwise received any gifts. The first year she hosted about 350 children. It peaked at over 100,000 area children hosted. Her dedication and drive is certainly to be admired. I have to wonder if her given name had any influence on her philanthropic work…
I may not be hosting 100,000 children for Christmas but I do pray I have had something to offer others over the years, especially in the name of…
Acts 9:36-42
I like to think that perhaps God is pleased with what I do. In my retirement, I've continued to find ways to use the gifts and talents He gave me and even learning some new ways to serve him.
Prayer: Gracious God, thank you for helping me make a small difference in my church and my community. AMEN
Acts 9:36-42
Tabitha’s story is partly one of her legacy. In my latter years, this is an issue that is rarely far from my mind. What did I bring to the table that will have lasting impact as a brother, husband, father, physician and most importantly, as a Christian? None of that is for me to arrange or decide. My charge is to do the very best I can with the gifts God has given me and, as our sister, Bev, reminds us - that will be enough.
Prayer - Thank you, Lord for this new day. May I treat this gift with the reverence it deserves and make my every word and action a reflection of Your love, joy,…