Wednesday

December 14
Joanna Schubkegel

You also must be patient. Strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. Brothers and sisters, do not grumble against one another, so that you may not be judged. See, the Judge is standing at the doors! James 5:8-9

It too often feels like the oppressors are winning and injustice won’t be punished. There is so much suffering in the world. James is acknowledging the pain the world inflicts on itself but he’s also offering us hope. He encourages us to be patient and strengthen our hearts, because we know that through Christ all will be made right. But what do we do while we wait?  We are not passively waiting while God’s people suffer.  Instead, God calls us to actively work with each other toward a more just world. At a time when it’s easy to feel divided we are warned to not grumble against one another.  Do not fight or blame or point fingers. Instead use the blessing of each other to do more of God’s good work in the world. Find what connects us and, from that common place, we can do even more good in the world.

Dear God, give us strength and patience while we wait.  Help us to continue fighting for what is right in the world and help us to find common ground, so that we may be stronger together. Amen.