You see that his faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. (James 2:22)
HAVE YOU EVER had someone say you look like your mom or dad? Physical appearances, and even morals and lifestyles, can be passed on from generation to generation. My parents lived simple but Godly lives in our little community. I am thankful they taught me by example what real faith looks like. I am thankful, too, that God stayed close through my lukewarm periods and brought me through with a desire to carry on what my parents had lived, not merely as a tradition, but because I took to heart what they taught me about faith and I saw them live it out in their works.
As in Bible times, people today have different opinions on what James meant as he addressed faith and works. Yet one thing is clear: We are here to represent Jesus, or re-present Him to others. Non-Christians search for answers in a world that seems to be falling apart. God’s Holy Spirit in us qualifies us to re-present God as the answer to all of life’s problems. Since the beginning of time, He has chosen to use us to communicate His love, even to the point of becoming one of us.
Do you wonder if you ever make God smile? Wouldn’t it be nice if someone said of us, “You know, they remind me of the Lord!” No doubt about it; that would bring a big smile to God’s face!
Ask someone how closely your life resembles Jesus.
Antje Hill and her husband spend their time between Mississippi and Michigan. She is passionate about her faith, her marriage, her sons and writing.
© 2018 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
