Vessels of ComfortLifeline for TodayMonday, February 26, 2024

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. So it was that he stayed many days in Joppa with Simon, a tanner. (Acts 9:36-43)

Let’s look at the people in this beautiful story. First there is Tabitha (Dorcas). She was a female disciple of Christ who was known for always doing good and helping the poor. She flourished with deeds of kindness and charity, making garments, and giving to the poor. Then there is Peter, one of the 12 disciples, who walked with Jesus. After the death of Christ, Peter was the first leader of the early church despite his denial of Christ prior to his crucifixion. 

Peter was nearby in Lydda when Tabitha died in Joppa, about 8 miles away. He may not have been in exactly the right place, but he had the right posture, willing to be used by the Holy Spirit, no matter the assignment. Willing to let go of what he was doing in Lydda to be used by the Spirit in Joppa.  

What is your ministry focus right now? Are you willing to abandon that assignment if God sends you on another? Are you willing to let go of the emotional and spiritual ties you have right now to do the new thing that God wants you to do? 

PRAYER: Lord, keep my heart soft and my ears attentive to your call. Let me never be so enmeshed in what I am doing NOW that I fail to plunge into the new assignments that you have for me. I trust your voice, and I need your help to do what you say. In the name of Jesus, Amen. 

Inspired and written by Minister Sharon Honor during the ministry’s 21 Days of Prayer