Poetry · Chapter
Dorcas explained
The poem imagines Dorcas, a woman who likely heard Jesus speak and was moved by his teaching that serving the least of his brethren is serving him.
What happens
The poem imagines Dorcas, a woman who likely heard Jesus speak and was moved by his teaching that serving the least of his brethren is serving him. She returns home, weaves garments for the poor, and after her death, the community mourns her by displaying the coats she made.
Themes in this chapter
Love as Ultimate Strength
Dorcas's love for Jesus motivates her to serve the poor, and her charitable acts are a testament to love in action.
Redemption and Grace
Dorcas's service to the needy is a response to Jesus's grace, and her life exemplifies the redemptive power of selfless love.
Characters to notice
- Jesus Christ
Dorcas heard Jesus speak and was inspired by his teaching about serving the needy.
- Unknown
The narrator reflects on Dorcas's encounter with Jesus and her subsequent acts of charity.
Key passages
“When did we see thee naked, Lord, And clothed thee in thy need?”
When did we see you in need and help you?
Dorcas recalls Jesus's teaching that serving the poor is serving him.
“The King shall answer, Inasmuch As to my brethren ye Did it—even to the least of such— Ye did it unto me.”
The King will reply that whatever you did for the least of my brothers and sisters, you did for me.
Jesus's words from the Gospel, emphasizing that acts of kindness to the needy are acts of kindness to him.