Daily Devotional for Monday, February 26

The Greeting

“James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting,” James 1:1.

I was blessed to know a pastor who was a long-time family friend and a respected statesman among those who knew him. It was easy to honor his faithfulness to the Lord and his love for people. Eventually, this man was one of my seminary teachers, and I was thrilled to learn from his knowledge and experience. I was surprised and blessed when I began to realize that he treated young preachers as equals rather than lording over us with his well-deserved position of respect. His signature greeting was “Hey ya, brother,” which he offered to everyone regardless of his age or position.

As James began writing by inspiration, he introduced himself as a “servant” or as an equal. James was writing to fellow-Christians who were enduring at that time severe persecution because of their faith in Christ and their faithfulness to Christ. Instead of asserting himself as an apostle or one of authority, he humbled himself to connect with them personally, much like the seasoned preacher-friend mentioned above.

James, who was not always known for his humility, humbled himself to connect with his readers. James, in essence, graciously extended a hand of friendship and encouragement to those fellow-believers who were in a great turmoil. No matter what position we may attain in this life, no human being is greater than another.

“Now” is always an appropriate time to offer understanding and kindness to others. Satan has done well to convince the world that Christians are judgmental. After all, we often assist him in this belief. Expressing compassion for other people may be the most Christ-like behavior we employ.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY
Everyone you meet is carrying some burden. Choose to be an encouragement to someone today.

Steven Ridings