Acts 9:36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. 37 And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber.
This passage of scripture tells us of the good, charitable works of Dorcas, who left behind her a legacy of kindhearted benevolence that resonates with Christians everywhere, even to this day. God is greatly honored when His people are renowned for kindness, for in this way, the character of Christ is exemplified to all who come within the sphere of their influence. When the Bible states that Dorcas was known for her benevolence, it means that she showed kindness in an unbiased manner to all she came in contact with, not merely to her friends, associates, or fellow brethren, but also to the less fortunate and even the unthankful, for the love that is born of God is not inhibited by unfavorable circumstances, nor is it quenched by ingratitude. Let's read:
Luke 6:35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. 36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.
This humble, unfeigned kindness manifested by Dorcas stands in marked contrast to the pseudo benevolence which abounds today in many secular and religious circles, where those who have done charitable deeds are showered with the praises and accolades of men in star studded events. After the disastrous earthquake in Haiti which took thousands of lives, there were mega concerts hosted by the "Stars", through which much needed funds were collected and donated, but the events were riddled with pride and love of display, and the name of God was hardly, if ever mentioned.
This is not the kind of legacy that Dorcas left behind, nor is it the type of charity which is honored in the heavenly courts, even though very real good may actually be done. The Bible teaches us how real kindness should be manifested, and when it is practiced in a uniform and humble manner, out of a clear conscience and a willing mind, God not only accepts it but also rewards it openly, just like he did with Dorcas. Let's read:
Matthew 6:2 Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. 3 But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: 4 That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
In our day we are privileged to take up the mantle of Charity where Dorcas left off, and even though we are surrounded with a self-serving environment, yet we should rise above natural inclinations of the human heart to serve ourselves first. God has instituted a time proven plan of benevolence whereby this very important characteristic of uniform, unbiased kindness may be practiced and cultivated. By giving a freewill offering to His kingdom upon the earth, and also by assisting the less fortunate wherever we can, we can cultivate true charity on an ongoing basis, for like any other tender plant, it must be carefully cherished and encouraged in order that it may blossom into an inherent virtue, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We therefore end with a passage of scripture which encourages us to adopt the legacy of Dorcas, for in so doing we will realize the true meaning of life. Let's read:
Romans 12:9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. 10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.
May this counsel guide and instruct us as we follow in the footsteps of Christ. "Good night" and God bless!