Tabitha Arises and the Words of Eternal Life
The early Church, blossoming across Judea, Galilee, and Samaria, was at peace—comforted by the Holy Spirit and grounded in holy reverence. In this atmosphere of quiet growth, Peter’s ministry took a dramatic turn toward miracles that not only restored bodies but revived faith.
In Lydda, Peter encountered Aeneas, a man paralyzed for eight years. With the authority of Christ, Peter commanded, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and make your bed.” Without delay, Aeneas rose. The ripple effect was immediate—those who witnessed the healing turned to the Lord. Miracles, in their rawest form, are not only about restoration; they are signs pointing to the source of life itself.
The narrative then shifts to Joppa and to a beloved disciple named Tabitha (also known as Dorcas), renowned for her charitable deeds and the clothing she made for others. Her death sent waves of grief through the community, especially among the widows who had experienced her generosity firsthand. Yet grief gave way to resurrection hope. Peter prayed, and then spoke gently to her lifeless body: “Tabitha, rise up.” She opened her eyes. She lived again. And many believed.
Both miracles—Aeneas’s healing and Tabitha’s resurrection—affirm a singular truth: Jesus Christ is the source of all life, whether in sickness or death, in the physical or spiritual realm.
This leads into the Gospel from John 6, where Jesus confronts His disciples with difficult teachings. Many walk away, unable to accept the cost of discipleship. Jesus turns to the Twelve and asks, “Do you also want to leave?” Peter responds with the only answer fitting of true faith: “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
The raising of Tabitha and the confession of Peter intersect on this day’s readings: one displays the power of Jesus at work in His disciples, the other affirms the unshakable foundation of their faith. Together, they remind us that Jesus is not merely a teacher of hard truths—but the very Word who speaks life into what was dead.
Whether we are paralyzed in spirit or grieving a loss, we are invited to rise—because He alone has the words of eternal life.
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Did You Pray Today?
Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God.
Take a moment now to pray:
The Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance.
Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace
Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light.
Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence.
May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.