In the story of Dorcas we see the impact of a genuine, sincere heart of service on the lives of others. Her death impacted both the men and the women of that community. The Scripture tells us she was FULL of good works and acts of charity. 

It wasn’t her deeds that made such an impact but the heart from which those deeds were born. She lived out this quality of Christian service.

“Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” Philippians‬ ‭2:3-4‬ ‭

Christian service is about others. Jesus came to this Earth and left the comforts and prestige of heaven for others. He suffered and surrendered his very life for others. When we genuinely care about others we are cooperating in His continued ministry on Earth and extending his love to others. 

“By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” ‭‭1 John‬ ‭3:16-18‬ ‭

“Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.”

‭James‬ ‭1:27‬ 

The Bible tells us God appreciates and honors this cooperative effort. In the case of Dorcus he restored her earthly life. For us, it may be spiritual reward. We may see some earthly manifestation or we may only see heavenly manifestation, but God’s Word promises that genuine service is greatly valued and benefits God’s plans. Our service to others will ultimately bless and enrich our lives as well. 

“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” Proverbs‬ ‭19:17‬ 

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Galatians‬ ‭6:9-10‬ ‭

“For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do. And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness to have the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.” Hebrews‬ ‭6:10-12

My prayer for you is that you will have a heart like Dorcas with genuine concern for the well-being of others and inherit all the promises of God that He delights for you to partake in.