May 10 | James 2:5-18

by Jennifer Jerrome

Growing up I didn’t hear a lot of “God talk” at home. We prayed out loud before meals, but that was about it. Faith wasn’t exhibited in words, but instead witnessed in act after act of kindness.

"What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, 'Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,' but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?  In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."

As I was reading today’s scripture, I made notes about faith in action, which immediately made me think of my mom. In honor of Mother’s Day this weekend, I’d like to take a moment (though she deserves many moments) to talk about how her quiet faith shouts volumes.

For as long as I’ve known her, she has always put others first. Need a ride to an appointment? She’s your gal! A home-cooked meal after surgery? She’s right there!

Not ironically, she volunteers for an organization called “Faith in Action.” And even as I’m writing this, she’s helping set up a fundraiser for a free health clinic in my hometown. Not a day goes by that she isn’t focused on how she can live out her faith. She embodies verse 18, “I will show you my faith by my deeds.”

I may not have realized it at the time, but each of my mom’s unspoken acts shaped my faith and impacted my life. She is a true example of Christ’s love and this Mother’s Day I want her to know just how much her “deeds” are appreciated.

Thanks, Mom, for showing me the true meaning of faith in action. I know you’re not in it for praise or accolades, but I hope you realize how much of a blessing you’ve been to me, our family and to so many others. We may not have used a lot of words to talk about our faith, but there was no shortage of His love in our lives.

Thanks be to God!

P.S. Next month I could write the same thing about the dads in my life too!

Father, the people you have placed in our lives are no mistake. Our lives are made richer by their existence. Thank you for giving us the greatest example of love and mercy - your son Jesus and for all those who strive to put their faith into action here on earth. Amen.