16 February 2022

But be doers of the word, and not merely hearers who deceive themselves. For if any are hearers of the word and not doers, they are like those who look at themselves in a mirror; for they look at themselves and, on going away, immediately forget what they were like. But those who look into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and persevere, being not hearers who forget but doers who act—they will be blessed in their doing.

From James 1:19-27, NRSV

In today’s reading, we hear James speaking about the importance of faith being seen through action. For James, it is not enough just to hear “the word”; those who truly listen will also be “doers”. James also describes the sorts of actions that will show faith in action. He says such people will be quick to listen but slow to speak and slow to anger. They will also care for those in need and will be “unstained by the world”. Perhaps James’ advice is no less important for today than when first written.

• • Why do you think James advises his readers to be “quick to listen” but “slow to speak”?
  • What helps or hinders us from acting of God’s word?

As you read or listen to God’s word today, resolve to act on these words and make time to reflect on what difference this made.