Scripture: James 1:23-27
For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act—they will be blessed in their doing. If any think they are religious, and do not bridle their tongues but deceive their hearts, their religion is worthless. Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.
Thought for the Day: Shane Claiborne is a fascinating voice within Christianity right now, and boy does he challenge me. He wrote,
“To all my nonbelieving, sort-of-believing, and used-to-be-believing friends: I feel like I should begin with a confession. I am sorry that so often the biggest obstacle to God has been Christians. Christians who have had so much to say with our mouths and so little to show with our lives. I am sorry that so often we have forgotten the Christ of our Christianity.”
Do you feel as uncomfortable as I did the first time I read those words? Even though your first reaction might be to dismiss or trash the words, I would encourage you to let them settle within you. And if you’re like me, the more they settle the more they will become unsettling.
My intention is not to have us chastising ourselves. God is gracious, and we should be as well. At the same time, we are the only witness to God’s grace that most folks will see. Are they getting a good take on grace?
Prayer: God, I ask that you assist me in my work as a witness to your marvelous and unconditional love. Amen.
Are you getting ready for Sunday?
Don’t miss out!
