Joy?

James writes in verse 2 that we should consider it all joy when we encounter all sorts of trials. I really don't like trials, tests, and hardships. Why, then, should I be filled with joy as I go through 45 radiation treatments to eradicate my cancer? For one thing many others have a much worse diagnosis than I. For another, I've had 65 years of good health. But the message here, I believe, is that our trials last for a very short time in comparison with eternity. Further, I have an opportunity to learn from the experience. In John's gospel he writes in the 16th chapter that "Nothing is more remarkable than the speed with which a mother forgets the labor pains after her child is born."

James, the Servant

What do you picture when you see the word servant? Maybe someone like Cinderella laboring for the ugly stepmother. James, the brother of Jesus considered himself in humility as his brother, his Lord's servant or slave. A Servant is someone who surrenders himself up to the will of another. The apostle Paul had been formerly a “bondslave” of Satan. Having been bought by Christ, he was now a willing slave, bound to his new Master. When James applies this term to himself, he obviously means that he is the property of God and of Jesus Christ, and that they have the right to command him and use him. The word, however, does not convey a sense of utter humiliation; it also has a sense of devotion and pride.

Why I Like James

I enjoy reading and teaching from the book of James. It is relevant, practical, and convicting. I would side with those who believe this author is in fact James, the brother of Jesus. James was well known among the believers and he identifies himself here, not as the brother of Jesus, but his slave of bond servant. I think James is being modest here and seeks no great recognition. I see this letter as a sermon that probably was preached before the Jerusalem council of 48 A.D. Possibly the first New Testament letter written.

Blessings in a Backpack

I am very proud of my daughter who has spearheaded an effort to help those kids who may not have enough to eat. An event today was held to help raise money for the project. So many people were recruited an gave of their time. A number of churches got involved and many kids will recieve a backpack filled with food each Friday as they leave school this school year. "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink,........"

Ministering to the Dying

What a difference the Hospice Chaplains responsibilities are as compared to those of the pastor in a pulpit. And yet, maybe they're not too far separated. Those in a congregation are often near death in a spiritual sense while those being seen by the hospice chaplain are terminally ill physically.