Miracles don't really happen anymore, do they? Our text today would certainly suggest that miracles were once common in the religious community. Today, when we hear people use the word miracles we become suspicious and doubt creeps in. Our text today not only addresses the subject of miracles, but suggests that many miracles take place in the ordinary events of our daily lives.

Our text today would make a perfect made-for-television movie. There's a story line that involves the larger community; there is a hidden sub-plot of the ministry of the disciple named Tabitha; there is an additional but related drama involving her death; the mystery of her miraculous rescue by Peter; and, yes, a happy ending.

Beneath the surface of this text lies several hidden treasures. Among these are service …