Silent Disciples

​-Peter Raises Tabitha, Acts 9:36-43
What does it mean to be a disciple of Christ? A disciple is one who is totally loyal to the teachings of Jesus and exhaustively practices these principles in their own walk of faith. A disciple puts God first and serves those who are on the fringes of society in Jesus’ name. The kids will discover an incredible disciple this week named Tabitha. Peter found Tabitha to be a devoted disciple of Christ who was respected by many, especially the widows she helped by making them clothing. The widows had praised Tabitha for her service to those in need. The widows had called Peter because Tabitha had suddenly fallen ill and died. As the widows prepared Tabitha for burial they bathed her and laid her in state along side the many beautiful garments she had made.  Peter was so moved by the charitable acts of Tabitha that he earnestly prayed for her to live and commanded Tabitha to get up. Miraculously she opened her eyes and was among the living again. Tabitha took Jesus’ command of serving others seriously. Luke chooses a fitting way to honor this disciple by having the very people she helped pay tribute to her.  I consider Tabitha to by one of the great “silent disciples” of the Bible. I encourage you this week to discuss the story of Tabitha with your kids. Discuss the wonderful “silent disciples” you have come across in your life and how they made a difference. Ask your kids who they might consider to be a “silent disciple” and what qualities make that person so special?