Tomorrow is the national day of Thanksgiving. Christians, however, should be thankful all the time, not just one day of the year (1 Thessalonians 5:18). There are many things we are thankful for, and also many people. Dorcas is one person many were thankful for (Text: Acts 9:36-42).

Dorcas was full of "good works and charitable deeds." She made clothing for people, which was readily displayed. God is pleased when we do good and share (Hebrews 13:16), and Dorcas did not forget to do just that. By giving clothes to those that are without, Jesus says we do it unto Him (Matthew 25:34-40).

Dorcas was dead, but lived again. When she was presented alive, no doubt many people had great joy. Imagine the joy that one would feel when seeing someone again after not seeing them for a long time. Jesus taught of a man that had a son who was "dead and alive again (Luke 15)." We all die spiritually, but through Christ we can be made alive (Galatians 2:20; 1 Corinthians 15:22). Physically, we must die and then can live again forever with God (Hebrews 9:27-28).

Because of Dorcas, many people believed on the Lord. While Jesus walked the earth, many of the Jews saw the things He did and believed in Him (John 11:45). After Jesus ascended into Heaven, many people saw the things the apostles did and believed on the Lord. No doubt those that were witnesses of the good works and charitable deeds of Dorcas believed on the Lord.

I am thankful for the Biblical record of people such as Dorcas, who had a great influence. I am thankful for you who serve the Lord and influence others. I am thankful to God for sending His Son to die for us that we might live again. What about you? Who are you thankful for?