Tabitha, a Disciple, a Reflection on Acts 9:36-43

In a time and place with no social security, no medicare or medicaid, people who had lost the breadwinner in the family were in real trouble. Yet, faithful Christians stepped in to help.

One of the care givers was Tabitha, a widow. A widow in that time was thought of as someone who wouldn't have had the means to support herself. Yet, this widow was devoted to good works and acts of charity. Luke calls her a disciple, a reminder for us that not all disciples have as their main job preaching.

She died. The other widows were distraught.

Peter, the former fisherman who preaches and heals openly, prayed, then commanded her to get up. She did.

The Christian church of today is still charged with performing acts of charity. We still have faithful disciples who show the love of Christ to those in need.

And we still find ourselves in despair when we lose someone who has been doing most of the work. And God still can fill the need.