27 Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.
James 1:27
Dear God, in the midst of James 1, this sentence seems a bit random. Out of the blue, James mentions widows and orphans. Not letting the world corrupt me makes sense, but the widows and orphans is interesting. I think this verse, combined with Stephen and six others being put in charge of caring for widows and orphans in the early church (Acts 6:1-6). I’ve always remembered this whenever I’ve heard about a widow in need and tried to do things for them when I learn of the need. I hope someone does the same for my wife should I die first.
It’s also a reminder that you really want us to be about loving others. We are here to be your hands and feet. We are your Plan A and you don’t have a Plan B.
Father, Holy Spirit, please show me if there is anyone today, even in the midst of our vacation, to whom you want me to be a servant. I’m sitting here thinking of some of the times in the past when my wife and I were able to be a specific blessing to someone in a desperate situation. But for every one of those examples, I am sure there are a hundred that I missed. So nudge me when I need nudged. Give me ears to hear and eyes to see.
I pray this through Jesus life, death, and resurrection, submitted to your will over mine,
Amen
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