The Daily Office for September 23, 2012
Scripture Readings
Old Testament
Psalm
New Testament
Gospel
Reflection
Starting with today's reading, the Epistle of James follows the three categories of being (1) swift to hear (1:21–2:26), regarding hearing as doing; (2) slow to speak (3:1–18), including the vulnerability of excessive talking and the comparison of conduct and speech; and (3) slow to wrath (4:1–17), identifying the sources of bitterness. The threefold admonition explains the proper response to the trials of life discussed in 1:2–18.
The command to lay aside all filthiness and wickedness uses expressions of coarseness rather than immorality. To overcome trials one must shun vulgarity as well as wickedness. The engrafted word, the implanted message of the gospel, should be received by Christians with unqualified submissiveness. The phrase "able to save your souls" points out the inherent efficacy of the gospel. The perfect law of liberty parallels the glass of verse 23. James chose two words which contradict each other. Law signifies restrictions; liberty the absence of them. The apparent misnomer sets forth a momentous teaching. Although God embraces inflexible standards and laws, He freely pardons anyone who trusts in Christ.
Collect for the Day
O Lord, we beseech you mercifully to hear the prayers of your people who call upon you; and grant that they may both perceive and know what things they ought to do, and also may have grace and power faithfully to fulfil them; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.