Last week I read through the book of Acts, and there were two stories that jumped out at me.
Dorcas.
In Acts 9:36-42 we read about a woman named Dorcas who had become ill and died. As far as we know, this woman never did anything extraordinary. She wasn’t a prophet or teacher. She didn’t make the lame walk or the blind see. But the Bible tells us that she had a kind heart, and she used her time and energy helping others in whatever way she could.
Apparently she had a great impact on the people she helped. Acts 9:39 tells us that widows filled the room where Dorcas had died. They wept as they clung to the precious coats and clothes that Dorcas had made for them.
God performed a miracle through Peter and brought Dorcas back to life, and as a result, many people become believers in Christ.
As I read the story, I was struck by the way God uses ordinary people. Dorcas reminds us that we don’t have to have exceptional skills or talents to make an impact for Christ. She was kind to the poor. She made clothes for widows. That’s it. But because of her faithful service, she touched the lives of many, and her story encourages us today.
Paul.
The Apostle Paul, by contrast, stands out as a truly extraordinary individual. His missionary journeys were epic, and he authored a good chunk of The New Testament.
In Acts 20:22-24 Paul exemplifies true courage. God has directed him to go to Jerusalem. God has also made Paul aware that pain and suffering await. As you read through Acts, there are several times where Paul’s friends try to persuade him not to go. But Paul will not be deterred. His answer is simply:
“But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God.” ~Acts 20:24
How many of us would be able to do what Paul did, I wonder? Knowing that hardship is ahead, and press on anyway? Let Paul’s example inspire you to do what you know God wants you to do, even when the cost is great.
You.
It doesn’t matter if you’re more like Paul or more like Dorcas. Great or small, we all have a role to play. Use the talents God has given you, and trust Him with the results.
