When I was in elementary school, I had a pen pal named Pauline. She lived in Juneau, Alaska, and we kept in touch for a couple of years. I loved having a pen pal for many reasons, but I think my favorite reason was it was just so exciting to receive a letter in the mailbox just for me and that I was invited to write back.

This new edition of the Daily Habit, we will be looking at the letter from James. This letter is filled to the brim with moral instruction. Reading it, we could keep this question in mind: How does Christ call us to live? James’ letter invites us on a journey that shows us that what we believe is inextricably bound with what we do and what we say. While this may not be surprising to us, reading this letter can bring up feelings of frustration, disappointment, and maybe even some shame. So before we begin this series of devotionals, we would like to invite you into a practice that we hope will ground you in God’s abounding grace.

First, think of a faith hero. Maybe it’s someone in the Bible like Moses, Ruth, or Mary. Maybe it’s one of the saints like Saint Francis or Mother Teresa. Maybe it’s a mentor, a family member, or loved one who is no longer with you. Now, write them a letter. You’re free to type it out, but it may be more helpful to put pen to paper. Write honestly about how you are doing. What’s going on in your life? What are some of the amazing things happening? What are some of the difficult things? Then, think of some questions you might ask them, and as you write your questions, take some time to ponder why you are asking what you’re asking. You are welcome to include that in your letter, but you do not have to. Close your letter in any manner you choose. You can thank them for their impact on you, you can tell them how much you’d like to meet them, or, you can tell them simply how much you miss them. It’s up to you! Once you’ve finished writing your letter, pray this prayer:

Dear God,

Thank you for the impact _________ has had on my faith and my life and that you continue to provide people who serve as witnesses to your love for me. Today I pray that just as you made _________ a vessel for me, make me a vessel for others so that all who encounter me may also know the love you have for them. Amen.