Read: Acts 9:32–43
Meanwhile Peter stayed in Joppa for some time with a certain Simon, a tanner. Acts 9:43
Aeneas was an invalid. Tabitha was a seamstress. Simon was a tanner. We know little more than this about these three people of faith. They are very small players in the story of Acts—they had only bit parts to play in early church history. But the little roles they played are important in the grand scheme of God’s redemptive work. The healing of Aeneas, the raising of Tabitha, and the hospitality of Simon each serve as a catalyst for people turning their lives toward Jesus Christ. These bit players are what make up the salvation drama that God is performing throughout the world, and throughout history.
What role does God want you to play?
Lord, when I hear the great names and great stories of the Bible, I struggle to believe that my story fits in. I cannot part seas, I cannot feed thousands, I cannot preach people to faith. Perhaps that is why Your Word is filled with people playing small but essential roles of faith that allow for the advancement of Your Spirit in the world. I may never be a Peter or Mary or Paul, but I might just be an Aeneas, a Tabitha, or a Simon. Give me a role, Lord, and I will attempt to play it. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.