Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost: Epistle, James 3:13-4:10      

James 3:13-4:10

We shared together last week that the letter of James is challenging. Doctrinally, yes. And practically as well. Why? Because James is gifted as he wields both Law and Gospel. And whenever the Law mixes with our behavior, heart or hands, that is challenging. James writes about what it means to mix the human heart and the ways of the world. And the outcome is not friendly to the Kingdom of Jesus. In fact, the only beneficiary in mind here is me. You and me. When our lives are molded around the desires of the world the result is “self-seeking, … confusion, and every evil thing.” (cf.3:16)

In our reading this week James does a stellar job of reminding us what we’re like when Jesus doesn’t rule our hearts. And it isn’t pretty. There is one remedy, and only one. The gospel of Jesus Christ. For in its proclamation is freedom from the law’s condemnation, freedom from the lure of the world, and freedom from me. And the gospel brings me the ability to submit to God and gain the grand benefit of His promised nearness. Submission doesn’t earn His presence. Rather, it is one element of the gifts He gives to ensure we receive all of what He desires to give us.

Thanks be to God for straight-talking (writing) James. He turns our eyes from ourselves to the only One worthwhile to look upon. I’m so glad.