What Kind of Church Would We Be, If...?

If we listened to the epistle of James? James, the brother of our Lord, wrote one of the most intriguingly direct epistles of the New Testament. Often likened to the New Testament version of wisdom literature (in the vein of Proverbs from the Old Testament), James does bear a resemblance to that genre, but in letter format.

If we were to listen to James today, what kind of church would we be? A church that:

• Glories in tribulation and is not addicted to "success"
• Lives the Message holistically, weekly, not just on Sunday
• Doesn't show favortism, particularly toward (or for) those that are esteemed in the world's eyes (not in God's)
• Places a premium on faithful works, not simply "proper" belief
• "Bridles" the tongue and is quick to listen, particularly to outsiders
• Displays true wisdom demonstrated in relationships marked by peace, accommodation and gentleness
• Is serious about the spiritual aspect of relationships within the church, striving to avoid passing judgment on brothers and sisters
• Practices justice in business, rewarding employees for their work, rather than using them for selfish ends
• Exercises patience in suffering and identifies with those suffering
• Relies on prayer, not programs, to accomplish God's work

Of course, much more could be said, but here are some of my thoughts. What are yours?