Brothers

Seventeen times in five chapters. That is how many times James uses the word “brother” as he writes to those who will read his letter. It is a significant word when we think of the author of the Book of James. Imagine being raised in the same house as Jesus. Imagine being the “little” brother of Immanuel. I think we imagine a childhood that is hard. A childhood that is overshadowed. But I think that in the Book of James we see a different picture. James is the brother of Jesus, and he teaches us something about being in the family of God. We see a man who has learned to look at those around him through the eyes of a brother. James encourages his “brothers” to be joyful, honest, and fair. He teaches his brothers to be “quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.” He wants his brothers to be conscious of their language, aware of the needs or the people around them, and compassionate. He urges truth, patience, and faith. James shows us that walking with Jesus changes our lives. Walking with Jesus gives us new eyes, an open heart, and willing hands. Being related to Jesus is not a burden, but a blessing. We are changed when we live in the family of God.