6th Week in Ordinary Time (Year A) : Monday 12th February 2024

In the midst of persecution, the1st century Jewish Christians from Jerusalem were scattered throughout the Roman world. James wrote his letter to encourage, to instruct, and to strengthen the diaspora of Christians. He relates to them that “trials … are a happy privilege” (v2) through which they will be made “patient” and “will become fully-developed, complete, with nothing missing” (vv3-4).

Many dismiss trials and hardship. However, as Christians, we need to pause and ponder, and let James’ words penetrate us with its profound teaching.

In order to be able to make wise decisions as the early Christians did in foreign and hostile, pagan environments, James says, we “must ask God, Who gives … freely and ungrudgingly” (v5). But it must be asked “with faith” and with “no trace of doubt” (v6).

Then, he exhorts them to understand the rich and poor fairly because in the Lord’s eyes, the ‘poor’ deserve modest pride for being given “high rank” (v9). And the ‘rich’ could very well be “thankful that he has been humbled” (v10).

James says, “riches last no longer than the flowers in the grass … the grass withers, the flower falls; what looked so beautiful now disappears” (vv10-11).

Today, James teaches us to understand, rightly, trials and status.

Lord, grant us understanding of our experiences this day, for You are the Way, the Truth and the Life.