Dorcas Preaching - Blog Action Day - Poem by Raymond A. Foss

We should remember, her story, her acts of faith
out of her poverty, her little, meager resources
she offers lessons for us all
a way to live our lives more fully

Up from the pages, from the town of Joppa
the port, overlooking the Mediterranean
a disciple shared her witness, her response
to the saving of Christ, her work for the kingdom

Coming forward, to the front of the congregation
sharing a word of hope, of faith
within the quieted sanctuary, listening to her words,
resting on the stool, her widow’s bones tired

Sharing the meaning, the change in her life, epiphany
being a Christian, understanding the Gospel words
what the lines of the judgment mean to her
caring, with her ordinary gifts, with her sewing

Giving to others, out of her poverty,
making clothes for others, those less fortunate
even than her widow’s stores
Rich because of the gift of Christ

A testimony, a witness to her faith
a common story, offering what she had
making all the difference, because of Christ’s love
caring for others, out of her poverty

updated October 11, 2008
September 28, 2008
Matthew 25:31-40
Acts 9:36-43 and sermon,
“The Story of the First Christian”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
and told by Elaine Halvorson,
as Dorcas, in her own words,
Suncook United Methodist Church
October 15, 2008
Blog Action Day, poverty