As we continue to reflect on St James' writings we can become aware of how we judge people, places, and events by our opinions of their appearance. There is almost an unconscious evaluation of how we should react to their presence and whether they are worth spending time with. They also say this process is in play when people seek to interview another for a position that they are summed up in the first thirty seconds. They say much of the remaining time of the interview is spent trying to affirm our presuppositions. This can be challenging because we want to be considered tolerant, open-minded, and considerate of those we meet. When we become aware of this inner contradiction we need to pray from that place so that we may act justly.
This just approach to life also helps us recognize when we feel deaf and mute. When we start to either close our ears or feel unable to speak out. There can be a sense that we withdraw into ourselves and close to the world around us. On this Sunday when we consider how we provide an environment that is safe for children and vulnerable people and that nurtures and sustains them. As Christians, we are called to walk humbly with others.
This calls us to notice how our hearts well up with joy within us. This is a courageous approach to life that overcomes our greatest fear. We discover a God who loves us tenderly and desires for our eyes to be open, our ears unsealed and our lips able to sing for joy. In an age when we are shaped by the information that we are called to consume on a daily basis we need to trust that God can open our minds and hearts for the good of ourselves, the good of others, and the good of God. May we pray that we may be shaped into God's image and likeness able to be people who are rich in faith as we touch eternity hear on our earthly journey.
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