A good many people have to die—to be appreciated

(J. R. Miller, "Miller's Year Book—a Year's Daily Readings")

"About that time she became sick and died. The room was filled with widows who were weeping and showing him the coats and other garments Dorcas had made for them." Acts 9:37,39

A good many people have to die—to be appreciated. They go through the world living quietly, devoted to the interests of those who are dear to them, seeking no recognition. They are merely commonplace people, and so are allowed to love and serve without appreciation.

But one day they are missed from their accustomed place—their work on earth is done—and they are gone! Then the empty place reveals the value of the blessing they have been. In their absence, people learn for the first time—the value of the services they had been accustomed to receive from them.