Pure religion

The book of James is often neglected. Critics feel it speaks against Paul's focus on grace. On this, the first of a series of Sundays looking at James and at the words of Jesus from Mark, Pastor Phil Kniss said that he hopes to give the book of James the respect it deserves. In James 1, the writer says every good gift comes from God. In fact, what we do is a reflection of the good gift of grace we have received. In James 1:26-27, James highlights the connection between faith and works. Jesus says the same things in Mark 7:6-8 when he chastises the Pharisees fro their empty words that are not matched with works. On Labor Day Sunday, Pastor Phil reminds us that work is a gift, it IS grace. We should be able to see God in our work.