Devotional Guide for Thursday, May 30

James 2:14-26

Reflect
I don’t know about you, but I have always found this section of James to be a bit of a challenge. The style of writing makes my head spin and I’m wondering if James is agreeing or disagreeing with what Paul said about faith and deeds.

If we were to take the time to do a deep dive on the words Paul and James use for faith and deeds, we would find they are more aligned than apart. Both believe faith is more than just a good doctrinal statement. Faith needs to have evidence of life change--specifically, a life changed to be more like that of Jesus.

James is pointing out to us that true faith always changes the heart of the individual and this changed heart results in acts of mercy and compassion--but acts of mercy and compassion to all, not just those who look like us or are easy to offer mercy or compassion to. The example of Rahab shows us what it looks like to offer hospitality to those who outwardly look different than us.

How has your faith in Jesus changed your life and the way you extend mercy and compassion to the world around you?

Pastor Terry

Pray for Hannah Nesdoly – Desert Streams
The Lord started me on a healing journey at McKernan in 2017. I realized God had been giving me a desire for healing and for helping people. After getting connected with Desert Streams, I completed their LiFE School courses and joined their staff team in November 2021 as a Ministry Coordinator! Desert Streams has been serving locally in Edmonton for over 15 years. We partner with God to bring His healing and life to people’s darkest places, and to help them get free from bondage and brokenness. We do this primarily through personal ministry appointments (PMAs), our LiFE Schools and Healing Retreats. As I continue to minister with Desert Streams, I am eager to see more and more people come to life, and have freedom and healing.