September 7, 2023: Newness

Daily Reading: Acts 9:32-43 & 10:1-23

Newness

Yes, I could call her Tabitha, but I prefer to call her Dorcas. The story of Dorcas reminds us of our own mortality. Dorcas died. Dorcas was well loved. She was kind and helped others. She must have been an excellent seamstress. So when Peter went to visit her, many were crying as they showed him the robes and clothing she had made. While the miracle is Dorcas (Tabitha) being made well or brought back from the dead, it also makes me wonder more about the legacy we leave behind. Will we be mourned for the good we brought into the world? Are there things we leave behind of value? But more importantly, did Dorcas makes sure to begin to teach people to sew or be kind? Or, did those who were so sad about losing Dorcas later seek her out to be taught by her?

The scripture continues today with Peter’s vision. Essentially, Peter learns that all of his preconceived notions of what he can eat and can’t eat is changing. He isn’t so sure what he thinks about that. Those answers will come another day. But this isn’t the only thing that has been changing lately for the followers of Jesus. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, they have been apart of God’s ministry—starting a church, managing followers, performing miracles, reaching Jews, Samaritans and Gentiles. They did all this in the midst of being persecuted.

What ties it all together? Newness. Dorcas has a new life. Peter has a new concept of what he can and can’t eat. This idea of newness may blow your mind because so often, we harp on tradition. However, if you are a follower of God, new things are bound to happen.

Questions:

1. What is one thing you hope to pass to another generation?

2. What is one thing you need to learn from someone else?

3. What new thing is God trying to reveal to you?

Daily Prayer:

Lord Jesus, work a new thing within our lives. Let us share the joy of our old traditions. But open us up to where you are directing us to go. Guide us in your righteous ways, O God. In the name of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit we pray. Amen.