James 3:13 – 4.3, 7-8a. V17 “However, the wisdom that comes from above is first of all pure. Then it is peaceful, gentle, obedient, filled with mercy and good deeds, impartial and sincere.”
Where are you going? What are you doing to get there? The title in my bible above the passage today is “Live wisely” The question is asked “Do any of you have wisdom and insight?” The answer follows” Show this by living the right way with humility that comes from wisdom” The passage goes on to say if you are doing something and feel jealous and later rivalry, there is disorder and every kind of evil.
I love to make plans, to help my family and Thanksgiving is coming up. A time when traditionally lots of food is prepared to eat at one meal. Meat, potatoes and of course pumpkin pie which is not the same without lots of whipping cream! I used to enjoy the gatherings but also found them stressful. To produce a meal for our ever growing family was hard work until I went on a retreat at Five Oaks near Brantford. If you ask God to help you include your spiritual life along side your practical life then the process is more peaceful and gentle. There are still lots of questions. How do I produce a meal that is healthy? How do I live wisely? But the gentleness is more apparent , I ask for help when I need it and do the decorating of the house and table the day before!
And then there is the vaccination question. Some in our family are vaccinated and some are not. How do we keep everyone safe? How can I be impartial and sincere?
Prayer: Holy One guide our thoughts to be pure in your sight as we safely live our lives during this continued pandemic. Amen
CrossWalk 