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"Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up - Acts 9:40

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Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. In those days she became ill and died, and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him, urging him, “Please come to us without delay.” So Peter rose and went with them. And when he arrived, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping and showing tunics and other garments that Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all outside, and knelt down and prayed; and turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. And he gave her his hand and raised her up. Then, calling the saints and widows, he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord. And he stayed in Joppa for many days with one Simon, a tanner. (Acts 9:36-43)

This fragment mentions Tabitha, her death and revival by St. Peter. We know about her that "she was full of good works and acts of charity". After her death, the disciples asked St. Peter to come to them as soon as possible. They remembered the deceased, cried and they also told the apostle about her good deeds. It is clear they loved the woman and that her death was sorrowful for them.

We know little about Tabitha, but we can learn a lot from her. Many of us have a tendency to empty words. We often say a lot and do little, sometimes we don't even do the few things we promise. Our words or even the desire to do good are often not followed by deeds.

We should imitate those who, like Tabitha, are "full of good works". We don't know if she spoke a lot or little, but her deeds confirmed her faith, her goodness won others over to her. Because people often remember better what we did than what we said. They remember the actions, the feelings it evoked, and words are often forgotten.

If we passed away now, how would those who knew us remember us? As a person who did a lot of good? Or maybe just as someone who only talked a lot? Or as someone who was not even interested in the people around them and their needs?

However, we should also be careful not to try to be remembered at all costs. It is not a rule that people always appreciate our efforts and deeds. Many of them will go unnoticed or forgotten. However, they are always visible before God. And ultimately, it is He who we must please. Even if people do not remember us, do not appreciate us, as the Gospel of Matthew says, "your Father who sees in secret will reward you" (Mt 6:4).

Reflection on Acts 9:36-43 by Agata Wierzbowska

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