A sobering question is posed in James 2:20 that calls for serious consideration.

"But are you willing to recognize, you foolish fellow, that faith without works is useless?"

I'm wondering, in the light of this scripture, how many of us who profess to have faith have merely given mental and verbal assent to a specific creed and doctrine, which accounts for the lack of true spiritual works and activity in our lives. Thus we have deceived ourselves into believing that we have a lively and active faith when in reality, the scriptures indicate otherwise.

The faith and works passage in James reveals that giving of oneself, in whatever way is required, to help others at their point of need, is foundational in a faith that is genuine. Yet we find ourselves living in the midst of a culture of consumerism that numbs us to the needs of others while impressing upon us how much more we need for ourselves. Most of us have been corrupted far more than we realize by Madison Avenue.

According to James, real faith translates into sacrificial service in behalf of others. Without these works of service, James very bluntly says that our faith is dead. Living faith prompts action that incarnates the life and presence of Jesus to those he brings across our path for that purpose.

We've entered the holiday season when people are more prone to kindness, reaching out to those in need. While that is good, the question we must answer is "Why doesn't that continue throughout the year?" Do we salve our conscience with a few kind deeds during this season thinking we've fulfilled our obligation for the year? We should remember Jesus words, "For the poor you always have with you." Thus we will never run out of opportunities to exercise our faith. In doing so, we bring the kingdom of heaven to earth just that much more as we enable our faith to work through love.