Thank you for coming to focus on the scriptures before worship today. Our scripture will be on a little known woman named Tabitha who stands out as a person who exemplifies servant leadership. She is merciful like Christ, and when she becomes sick, the way she lived her life for others is ultimately the way she is healed. Hear this scripture and let God speak through it as we hear Gods words illuminated.
The First Reading: Lectio (Listen)Read the text out loud. Simply hear the story.
Acts 9:36-43 (CEB) In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which in Greek is Dorcas). Her life was overflowing with good works and compassionate acts on behalf of those in need. About that time she became sick and died. After washing her body, they laid her in a room upstairs. Since Lydda was near Joppa, when the disciples heard that Peter was there, they sent two men to him and urged him, “Please come to us without delay.” Peter got up and went with them.When he arrived, they took him upstairs to the room. All the widows stood beside him, crying and showing him the shirts and coats Dorcas had made while she was still with them. Peter sent everyone out of the room, then knelt and prayed. He turned to the body and said, “Tabitha, get up!” She opened her eyes, saw Peter, and sat up. He gave her his hand and helped her stand up. Then he called the holy ones and the widows and presented her to them alive. This became known throughout Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. Peter stayed in Joppa for several days with a tanner named Simon.
Take a moment to pause and reflect on the passage you just read. What stood out?The Second Reading: Meditatio (Reflect)
As you read this a second time, listen for a specific word or phrase that “shimmers” or catches your attention. What is the Spirit highlighting for you today?
(Read Acts 9:36-43 again)
Reflection Questions to ask:
- Tabitha’s leadership was defined by “overflowing good works.” Where does your ministry “overflow” with right now?
- The widows showed Peter the clothes Tabitha had made—tangible evidence of her love. What are the tangible signs of mercy in your life?
- Tabitha was a healer who needed healing. Where in your life are you being called to receive the same mercy you usually give to others?
The Third Reading: Oratio (Respond)Host: In this third reading, let the words become a prayer.
(Read Acts 9:36-43 one final time)
Now, speak to God. If you are feeling “asleep” or stagnant in your passion, hear the command given to Tabitha: “Get up.” Talk to God about what it would look like for you to take “brave action” in your service or your giving this year.The Fourth Reading: Contemplatio (Rest)We sit now in silence for one minute. No more words. Just rest in the presence of the God who resurrects our dreams and our ministries.(60 seconds of silence)Closing StatementTabitha’s story reminds us that mercy is the center of who we are. As we move into this stewardship season, remember that your gifts—whether they are garments, finances, or acts of compassion—make ministry happen.We are especially grateful to have Rev. Charity Goodwin joining us this Sunday to dive deeper into this text. If you’ve been reading her book, GET UP, you know she carries that same Tabitha-spirit of brave action.Go today rooted in the Word, led by mercy, and ready to make ministry happen. Amen.