Now there was in Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which, translated, means Dorcas. She was full of good works and acts of charity. Acts 9:36
“You can see that a city is prosperous by the wealth of goods for sale in the market. Land too we call prosperous if it bears rich fruit. And so also the soul may be counted prosperous if it is full of good works of every kind.”
Basil of Caesarea (330-379) as cited in Drinking From The Hidden Fountain: A Patristic Breviary. Ancient Wisdom for Today’s World by Tomáš Špidlík (Cistercian Publications, 1994) 110.
Everyone thought Tabitha was on her deathbed but God had other plans. I am thankful to be recovering from Covid and praising God my mom’s heart procedure eliminated her atrial fibrillation. Like Tabitha, she’s back in the game!
The world defines prosperity in terms of wealth, goods, and abundant crops. Basil reminds us that a soul full of good works is prosperous, like Tabitha in the early church. She was full of good works and acts of charity.
When we do acts of grace or charity we show we have received grace. We reveal that the key to prosperous living is actually found in receiving and dispensing God’s grace. It’s quite different from the world’s measure.
Nothing can touch grace. Nothing is more beautiful. It’s unmerited favor. Unfathomable blessing. Undeserved kindness. Unconditional love. It’s not what anyone deserves but what everyone wants. Get it and share it!
Think about it. How will you be described on your deathbed? Will people say you had wealth, goods, and abundant harvest? Or will they say you were full of acts of charity? Your living today writes your legacy tomorrow.
Thanks to the charitable givers who have helped GTP this week. We are still praying for 28 more givers to hit a mark set by a foundation considering a big gift. Even $5 or $10 can help. Please click here to give to GTP today.