This past week we were blessed by the presence of over 30 guests from South Oakland Shelter. SOS is a ministry that helps people who are at a challenging place in life. These are people just like you and me who have lost their job, their homes, and sometimes even their families.
As I reflect on this week and some of the great people I met, I think about the words of James:
My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?
For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floorâ€â€”well, doesn't this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?
Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn't God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren't they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him? But you dishonor the poor! Isn't it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court? Aren't they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?
Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.†But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law. (James 2:1-9)
How often do we judge people based on their appearance? Do you ever find yourself treating someone different (or at least thinking differently about them) because of their clothing or the car they drive?
As I look back at the life of Jesus, He spent time with the people no one else would. Rich or poor, they were worthy of His time. If we are trying to follow Jesus, shouldn't we strive to be the same?
shine!
Jason
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