Devotional - October 19, 2022
Scripture: James 1: 16-17 Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters. Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
If nothing else, Jesus' family both understood their God and could articulate their relationship with God using rich and full metaphors. Read all the ways James expresses his points in just the first chapter of his book. He talks about faith using the waves in the sea (1:6). He talks about life using the wildflowers (1:10) that bloomed on a hillside. Today, look at how he describes one's relationship with God. Not to mention his relationship to his readers. James calls his readers "dear brothers and sisters". As we've said before, by naming both, he recognizes and acknowledges them as equal and noteworthy in the family of God. He references God, like Jesus did, as Father. We have covered this point in the past, but it is worth repeating. In Jesus' day, everything came to the family by way of the father, one's name, money, house, resources, and heritage. In essence, one's very life depended on the father/husband of the family. To a persecuted church who are concerned about their life, these words reassured them that God would provide for them. Some may wonder if God, presented as Father, is an innovation brought forth by Jesus or was it used in the Old Testament as well? It is used in the Old Testament. In Isaiah 63:16,
But you are our Father,
though Abraham does not know us
or Israel acknowledge us;
you, Lord, are our Father,
our Redeemer from of old is your name.
Isaiah is the book that prophesied most about the Messiah, so it is not surprising we would find Jesus' relation to God described therein. But, dig deeper into the Isaiah text, there is so much revelation found there about our relationship to the Trinity. James encourages his readers that, in spite of the hostility they faced, God's generous heart would cover their needs. The words, "perfect" and "good" are not expressions of morality. Instead, they are expressions of God's goodness and generosity. All of which is backed up by the way James describes God's faithfulness. James points out their provisions (gifts) come from God (from above) directly to them. God's faithfulness is like the stars (heavenly lights) that come forth every night and provide the on-looker with direction. The stars cast no shadows. Their light is consistent, their numbers vast which bears witness to their Creator. The One in whom the reader of the book James is encouraged to bestow their trust.
Pray with me, Gracious and Eternal God, we labor and are entrusted with many things. Remind us O God, You are with us. You will help us and provide for us as we continue doing the work You call us to do. Being the people, you call us to be. Bless our loved ones according to their needs. And bless our church, so we can be the church that bears Your name, the name of Jesus, in whose name we pray, Amen.
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
