Full of Good Works

I love studying the stories of people in the Bible. This week, the story of Tabitha, who was also called Dorcas, really touched my heart. Her story helped me gain a greater understanding "that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass" (Alma 37:6).

Tabitha was called a disciple. A disciple is someone who accepts God's authority in his or her life. To become a true disciple, one must not just believe, they must also be doers and act on what they believe. Tabitha was a woman full of good works, and when she died, was remembered for the charitable impact she had on others, especially on those who many may consider the least. 

For some, Tabitha's good works of making coats and garments may have seemed insignificant. Tabatha herself may have thought of her contributions to her community as such. However, the impact of her deeds meant a great deal to those who benefitted from Tabitha's seemingly small act. In fact it is evident that her good works made such an impact when the widows wept as they showed Peter the garments which she had made them.

Tabitha's story also highlights a few other seemingly small acts of discipleship that can make a great difference. The widows, touched by Tabitha's generosity, washed her body and laid it in an upper chamber. Two men were sent to ask Peter to come to them. Peter prayed and asked for divine intervention. Lastly, others shared what had happened. Each of these small acts of discipleship led to "many [believing] in the Lord" (Acts 9:42).

As disciples of Jesus Christ we don't have to do everything, butt we do need to do something no matter how small or insignificant it may seem. In many cases, it is the small, good works we do that settle into the hearts of others that make the biggest difference because they are what lead to belief in Jesus Christ.