27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God, the Father, is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world. – James 1:27
It is difficult to look suffering in the eye. It’s uncomfortable, painful, and awkward. It is easier for us to distract and distance ourselves from the weight of reality. In these modern times, we so readily look for lighthearted memes and soundbites rather than to those afflicted by burden. James speaks boldly to this distraction. The second part of this verse sheds light on this perplexity. When the “world”, played out in our inner thought life, is telling us to run from the dire circumstances, our faith tells us to run towards the hurting and oppressed.
The Church of God should be known for the radical way they reach out to orphans and widows, especially in America. Yet, it is us who have the most that contribute the least to these. It is interesting that James equates true religion to movement and not belief. In theory, we all believe in helping such people. In theory we all believe Jesus is the God of the outcast and burdened. But where is the action that this belief births? Do we believe at all?
Those of us in leadership positions have missed the mark many times. We serve to build. We give in comfort rather than serve in sacrifice. The world has stained our theology when our call for more drowns the clear whisper of Jesus who demands less. Perhaps this has handcuffed those we lead. Many want to serve the overlooked, but through what avenue?
Do we have clear and tangible ways to serve those who Jesus cherishes?
Do we support these opportunities, regardless of vision?
It seems like the call of Jesus is simple. It is our worldly thinking that complicates it.
There are widows and orphans all over.
Love them well
Matt simon blog 