Suzi Pitts

James 2:8

If, however, you are fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well. 

It was a typical day at church the morning it happened. Acolytes proceeded the choir and clergy. We sang hymns and prayed. The pews were filled with the lovely church family of all ages, dressed in their Sunday best. Yes, It was beautiful and routine until it wasn’t. The fire alarms screeched out, and the sanctuary was evacuated as the fire engines roared onto campus. Smoke was billowing out of the kitchen. Very quickly, it was determined that burnt popcorn in the microwave was the culprit, and all would be well. Those who knew, knew. I knew. It was Theo, our friend with the backpack who came to church most Sundays. He was a quiet guy who was probably experiencing homelessness. He did not look like any other in the congregation. He had a penchant for donuts and coffee and often used the microwave for popcorn until the day it burned. I knew Theo was poor by the world’s standards. And although I was sure that he was harmless, he still just made some of us, me, uncomfortable. 

But let’s look at our scripture: 

If, however, you are fulfilling the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing well. James 2:8 

There was a particular problem in James’ church. Folks were showing partiality to the rich and disregarding the poor. Before I go all “tisk, tisk!” to them, I better check myself. Am I a better friend to the pretty, the popular, the powerful? Or do I diminish the presence of those who look different, act awkward, and aren’t important or even attractional?  

The New Interpreter’s Bible Commentary states that by placing the commandment of love where he does, James makes clear that “the neighbor” must include all who enter our space, not only those whom we find attractive or even valuable to us, but above all those whom we find alien and, therefore, threatening. 

It’s the upside-down, inside-out kingdom again. Jesus is clear. The last shall be first. 

Even though Theo has moved to Austin, and we don’t see him anymore, isn’t it great to picture him in a seat of honor? Those are my kingdom lenses that I’m asked to don each day. Won’t you join me?

Prayer:

Father God, 

Thanks for a fresh start and the chance to get things right-side-up in your kingdom today. Would you please set up holy encounters with all whom you would have me love today? Not just the easy ones, Lord. The tough ones too. Give me courage and conviction to show up with kindness, empathy, hospitality, and showing honor. I’m ready. Let’s do this. I love you. Amen