Living in Light of the Lord’s Coming (Part 1): A Reflection on James 5:1-12
As we navigate through the turbulence of today’s world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, as if everything is spiraling out of control. For those of us who follow Jesus, the Bible provides clarity and hope. With great hope in their hearts, the early church anticipated Christ’s return, and in these challenging times, this anticipation feels even more urgent and relevant.
In James 5:1-12, the apostle addresses how we should live in light of the Lord’s imminent return. He challenges the mindset that prioritises wealth accumulation and self-indulgence at the expense of others, warning us against the dangers of greed and exploitation. He instead, encourages patient endurance to live with steadfastness as Christ’s return approaches.
James vividly describes the fate of the wealthy who misuse their resources. James’s critique is not against wealth itself but against hoarding and using wealth selfishly. He condemns those who gain riches through exploitation and fail to pay fair wages, reminding us of God’s command to treat workers justly (Deuteronomy 24:14-15, Leviticus 19:13). He also admonishes those who indulge in luxury at the expense of their spiritual health, warning that such behaviour will testify against them on Judgment Day.
The real question James poses is about priorities. Are we storing up treasures on earth or in heaven? True riches come from seeking God’s kingdom first (Matthew 6:33). We must manage our resources wisely, using them to do good and invest in eternal treasures.
As stewards of God’s creation, we must remember four key principles: God owns everything, we are growing through our stewardship, the amount we manage is less important than our faithfulness, and true faith requires action. By aligning our lives with these principles, we can live in a way that honours God and prepares us for the Lord’s return.
In these last days, let’s focus on living with integrity, justice, and a heart oriented towards God’s kingdom, ensuring that our lives reflect the hope and anticipation of Jesus’s imminent return.