Get Up

During the month of May, we are hanging out in the book of Acts or “The Acts of the Apostles,” exploring the early days and development of the church.  This week we spend time with the only woman in the Bible who is named as a disciple…Tabitha.  (Also known as Dorcas.)  (Which can be translated gazelle!)  Tabitha was well known in the community for her charitable spirit and good works supporting widows and the poor. It is clear that Tabitha was also well loved in the community as many gathered in love and grief at the time of her death.  Today we hear what happened when Peter, echoing the words and actions of Jesus, told Tabitha, a woman who spent her life lifting up others, to “get up.”