October 1, 2021 – James 2-5

It seems as if, when people come to the epistle of James, that the focus is always placed on his instructions about faith and works, partiality, and the tongue. Within the passage on showing partiality, there is this: “For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become accountable for all of it. For he who said, ‘Do not commit adultery,’ also said, ‘Do not murder.’ If you do not commit adultery but do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. So speak and so act as those who are to be judged under the law of liberty. For judgment is without mercy to one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment” (2:10-13).

James seems to be giving a reminder that, at some point, all of us have transgressed the law. We are to understand that we ourselves are adulterers or murderers or whatever. We have received mercy and will be judged under the law of liberty. As we have been treated, so we should treat others. It is so easy to see the faults of others while missing our own. God sees all our faults, however, and still he has shown mercy. We must do likewise toward others. Ira Wilson’s words remind us that, as we have been blessed, so should we bless.

Give as ‘twas given to you in your need,

Love as the Master loved you;

Be to the helpless a helper indeed,

Unto your mission be true.

Make me a blessing, Make me a blessing.

Out of my life may Jesus shine;

Make me a blessing, O Savior, I pray.

Make me a blessing to someone today. -- Ira B. Wilson (1909)