Our scripture this morning is James 5:7-9.
Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. The farmer waits for the precious produce of the soil, being patient about it, until it gets the early and late rains. You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door.
I’m always humbled when our daily reading speaks to me directly. In today’s passage James writes about patience, anger and judging – all of which are issues I deal with. Sometimes I react to these things in a sadly human way and need to ask forgiveness.
James tells us not to give up in difficult circumstances because we believe God’s promise. He warns us not to “complain against one another”, reminding us that human anger does not produce God’s righteousness. My frustration with a situation will not solve it; James counsels us to “be patient until the coming of the Lord.”
Jesus is coming, the only true and holy judge. He alone can forgive us and He alone will set things right in His kingdom. We are called to wait patiently but actively. No matter how the world responds, we must share His love with everyone.
Gracious God, we are sorry for the times we respond in anger, rather than the patient faith Jesus taught. Forgive us and send us to tell the world of Your love. Amen.
