In some ways James gave an “altar call” right in the middle of his letter. He knew there were people in those new churches who professed to have faith, but, in fact, there was no indication that their lives had been changed. Because there was bickering and jealousy, ambivalence about loyalties, and mixed motives when they prayed, there was clearly a serious problem. In the face of these difficulties, he challenged them to consider their need to humble themselves before God and to repent of their sinful ways. That always seems to be the best place to start, doesn’t it? Simply coming to God so He can show you Who He is and to allow Him to cleanse you and lift you up by His grace will always transform your attitudes and your actions. It is a promise He has made to everyone who believes in Him.
Whether your “altar” is in a public place, in the privacy of your own home, or somewhere else, the invitation remains open to everyone. The Lord in His great love beckons all of us to come humbly into His presence, choosing to seek His will over our own desires. He longs for you and me to know there is nothing else that can fill the emptiness of our hearts like He can.
