Today remembers James, an apostle of Jesus and the brother of John, both sons of Zebedee. The two brothers, along with Peter formed an inner circle around Jesus in that they were several times privy to certain events, like the Transfiguration, that the other disciples did not experience. The mother of James and John may have been the Salome who Mark says was at the crucifixion (Mark 15:40) since Matthew appears to refer to her as the mother of the sons of Zebedee (Matthew 27:56). There is also a possibility that their mother was the sister of Mary if she is the same person the Gospel of John mentions (John 19:25). In that case, James would have been a first cousin of Jesus.

The genealogical possibilities are interesting, but what really strikes me is this brief account in Acts 12:1-2.  “About that time King Herod laid violent hands upon some who belonged to the church. He had James, the brother of John, killed with the sword. James is the first of the Twelve to be martyred. When Herod saw that the execution of James pleased the enemies of Christianity, he had Peter arrested.” I don’t think the move on Herod’s part was as much religious as it was political.

It can be dangerous to live out your faith when that faith runs against popular opinion. Don’t believe me? Just try telling people blessed are the merciful or blessed are the peacemakers and see what kind of reaction you get.

Thank you, James, for the example of your faith.

Read Matthew 5:10-12 and remember: God loves YOU unconditionally.

Wayne