Show Me Your Faith Apart From Your Works

This meditation is based on a passage for November 15, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: James 2:14-26

Reflection and Question: Connecting “faith and practice, truth and duty,” the words in the historic Principles in the first chapter of the PCUSA Book of Order, was just as difficult for the ancient church as it is for us now. The letter of James has irritated many theologians by its emphasis on works as the only legitimate measure of faith. But his logic is compelling that “faith without works is dead.” This is why I am required by my faith to advocate for full equality in church and society for LGBT people. This work brings my faith to life. What work on your part brings your faith to life?

Prayer: Holy Spirit, James offers Abraham’s lifting of the knife and Rahab’s assistance to Your spies in Jericho as models for putting our faith into action. May they inspire us to do Your will in all we do that our faith may shine for all to see. Amen.