Good Memories

My brother-in-law Phil had been a creative man who taught art, loved nature, and made hand-crafted jewelry, wood items, and pottery. When he died, my family dressed thoughtfully for his celebration-of-life service. Instead of a traditionally somber color, I chose to wear a sweater with a design of birds and trees — natural elements Phil had loved. One of his daughters-in-law picked clothes reflecting his favorite colors. Another sister-in-law wore jewelry that he had made for her.

Seeing the way our family honored Phil

reminded me of the story in today’s reading. Dorcas, a disciple in Joppa, had died, and the local believers sent two men to fetch Peter. When he arrived, a group of widows gathered around him crying, showing him the robes and clothing Dorcas had made for them. Scripture says Dorcas was “always doing good and helping the poor” and in doing so, she influenced many lives with her generous, giving spirit.

God has created each of us with different gifts and talents. Not everyone will create beautiful jewelry like my brother-in-law or robes like Dorcas. But we each are called to love God and one another. As we open ourselves to the Holy Spirit, in Christ’s name we can make a beautiful impact on the lives of others that may continue long after we are gone.