Bridge Builder

There is one lawgiver and judge who is able to save and to destroy. So who, then, are you to judge your neighbor?

— James 4:12 (NRSVUE)

Both Jewish and Christian scholars assert that James functioned as a righteous teacher and bridge builder between Jewish followers of his brother Jesus and those who adhered to the tenets of emerging Rabbinic Judaism. James pointed to the heart of scripture when he wrote, “If you really fulfill the royal law according to the scripture, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself,’ you do well” (Jas. 2:8). His words continue to offer guidance for bridge building today.

In his writings, James taught that Jesus’ followers are distinguished by their non-judgmental posture toward others. He instructed, “Let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger, for human anger does not produce God’s righteousness” (Jas. 1:19-20). James also taught that when we draw near to God, God will draw near to us (Jas. 4:8) and empower us to show mercy instead of judgment and to listen with compassion before offering advice.

In a world that constantly tempts us to embrace division, anger, and fear, what would our new year look like if we chose to live according to the humble example of James, our ancient brother in Christ? What arguments might end? What truths might we find? What aspects of our most authentic selves might joyfully emerge?