Reflections on ‘Santiago’
The poor (people in humble circumstances)
The poor and the rich
The poor (people in humble circumstances)
· Are in ‘high position’ as regarded by God and they ought to take pride in that high position
· God chose those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised to those who loves him
· Often insulted by others (e.g. often given the lowest seats when they come to a meeting)
The rich
· Are in ‘low position’ as regarded by God and the right attitude is to see it that way because ‘they will soon pass away like a wild flower’ – the will fade away while they go about their business
· The rich are exploiting others
· The rich are people who drag others to court
· The rich are the ones who are slandering the noble name of The Lord
· Often shown favoritism by others e.g. offered the best seats in a meeting and thus make other to sin by showing favoritism
· There is the danger of God’s judgment for those who show favoritism – do you show favor to the rich (by offering better seats!)
The 3 Tests
1. ‘Listening and doing’ test – merely listening to ‘the word’ (Bible) and not doing or obeying what you listen or heard is like seeing yourself in a mirror (the Bible) and walking away from it and forgetting what you see. The blessings are only for those who obey.
2. ‘Saying and doing’ test – saying and not doing (e.g. saying to the poor – be well, keep warm and be well fed but not doing anything about their physical needs) – God will judge according to how you ‘speak and act or not act’
3. ‘Having faith and acting upon it’ test - the proof of having ‘faith’ is what you do (your action) as a result of your faith. A step of faith is taking a a step or to move based on your faith
Lord, help me to see the way you see about people in humble circumstances and those who are not. Help me to remember that as I read your word I am to obey and to apply it in my life and to act upon it in faith, Amen.
LK 25/3/2012 Dwarka, ND
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