Faith and Works. By: C.C

"You see now that it is by deeds, and not only by believing, that someone is justified. As a body without a spirit is dead, so is faith without deeds." (James 2:24-26)

The Book of James is one that I can read over and over again without ever tiring. I can not tell you how over joyed I have been at each evening Mass this week....given that the readings have been from The Book of James. As I sat in Church tonight and reflected upon the first reading, I could not help but feel a deep connection to my own life. I sat in quiet thought and tried to think of the ways in which I extend my faith beyond words, thoughts, and feelings. Do deeds accompany my faith? How can I be more like Abraham, putting faith toward the Lord into my actions and deeds? I am sure that this Scripture passage can be interpreted many ways. Each person will draw their own conclusions and sentiments as to what deeds and actions the Lord is calling them towards to be "justified". Personally I feel that our deeds from faith exceed those of service towards others that are publicly displayed. We are called to commit good deeds even when others are not watching. We must examine our hearts to make sure that the deeds we perform are for His glory and not our own. Are we working through and with faith? These are questions that we must often ask ourselves. As we come to reflect upon these few words I have shared from today's reading, one may also begin to realize that faith without works is meaningless. What good is believing in the Lord if there is little action and reflection of His light through our lives? Do we show by our deeds that we believe? Our faith and our actions must be intertwined so that those looking in at our lives can see that we are believers in Christ...responding to our call to become Saints. Lord provide us with the clarity and understanding of our faith so that we are able to recognize the need for "works". Let us humble ourselves and serve You by serving others in any way that we may be called to. Lord thank You for Your unchanging love and for all of the blessings that You give. Guide us each day to deepen our relationship with You and respond to the daily call. May all of our deeds and actions be those that reflect our faith and Your light, love, peace, joy, and sacrifice. May the Holy Spirit fill us with a fire for our faith that will fuel everything we do in our days. Keep us protected Lord and enable us to do good deeds even in times that seem difficult. Lord..help us to see that "it is by deeds, and not only by believing, that someone is justified." Amen. (C.C.)

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