Who Knows Your Name?

In yesterday’s Sunday School lesson, we reflected on the life of Tabitha, also known as Dorcas, a remarkable woman of faith and compassion. Dorcas was not a prophet or a prominent public figure, but her life left a memorable mark on the hearts of those she served. She loved God’s people deeply, dedicating her time to making beautiful tunics for them and feeding the poor. Her hands and heart were tools of kindness, proving her unwavering devotion to God through acts of love.

Yet, despite her faithful service, something tragic happened, Dorcas became ill and passed away. The loss was devastating, especially to the widows she had helped. These women, often overlooked by society, found in Dorcas a friend, a provider, and a source of hope. When she was gone, their grief was clear.

When Loss Feels Unbearable

How many of us can relate to this? We’ve all experienced the pain of losing someone whose life radiated goodness, someone whose presence seemed irreplaceable. Whether it was a family member, a mentor, or a friend, their absence leaves a void that feels impossible to fill.

The widows in Joppa couldn’t hold back their sorrow. They showed Peter the tunics and garments Dorcas had made, tangible reminders of her kindness and love. Their grief wasn’t just about losing a friend, it was about losing someone who embodied the heart of God in their lives.

When we lose someone of great esteem, it can be hard to wrap our minds around the reality that they will never walk this earth again. We question why God allows such loss, especially when their life seemed to bring so much good into the world.

The Legacy of a Life Well-Lived

The Bible tells us that Dorcas was well-known and deeply loved by her community because of her kindness. Her legacy was not in wealth, power, or fame, it was in the lives she touched through her faith and compassion. Dorcas reminds us that true greatness isn’t measured by the world’s standards but by how we serve others in love. Her life teaches us:

   •      Kindness Leaves a Mark: The simplest acts of kindness—feeding the hungry, clothing the poor, or offering a listening ear, can change lives.

   •      Faith in Action Matters: Dorcas didn’t just profess her faith; she lived it out daily through her deeds. Her life was a reflection of God’s love in action.

   •      Community Is Powerful: Dorcas wasn’t isolated; she was deeply embedded in her community. Her love for others created a network of support, love, and mutual care.

God’s Power in Our Pain

Dorcas’ story doesn’t end with her passing. The disciples, recognizing the deep loss, sent for Peter, who came and prayed over her. Miraculously, God brought her back to life, restoring her not only to her community but also as a living testimony of His power and compassion.

While we don’t always experience such dramatic miracles, this story reminds us that God is present in our grief. He sees our tears, hears our prayers, and works in ways we often don’t understand. Even when the loss feels unbearable, we can trust that God is faithful. The legacy of those who pass on lives in us, in the love they gave, the lessons they taught, and the ways they reflected Christ.

Who Knows Your Name?

The Father knows your name. He knew you before you were born and wrote every day of your life in His book (Psalm 139:16). The Son knows your name. He laid down His life for you, calling you His friend (John 15:13-15). The Holy Spirit knows your name. He intercedes for you with groans too deep for words (Romans 8:26).

In the story of Tabitha (Dorcas), we see the profound truth that God knows us intimately and values every act of faithfulness. You don’t have to strive for recognition or validation from the world. When the Creator of the universe knows your name, you can walk in confidence, purpose, and peace.

Let Tabitha’s (Dorcas) story inspire you to live a life that matters—not because the world applauds, but because God sees, knows, and delights in you. When your life reflects His love, even in the smallest ways, you create a legacy that echoes into eternity.

For more on this teaching, you may go to our Sunday School service located on our Video page.