“James, a bond-servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes who are dispersed abroad: Greetings” (James 1:1).
Sometimes we worry about who does and who does not pay enough attention to whatever we may understand as a “servant of righteousness” (Romans 6:16-18). James is a slave (that is the actual Greek word) of Jesus. It may chafe us, but we were created to serve. We will serve our selves, an idea, or the Lord. James is writing to the dispersed Jews around the Roman Empire. Paul’s writings were primarily to Gentiles who became Christian. The Lord built a team of bond-servants to reach all who would receive the Gospel.
“Greetings,” He says. We are to greet one another as brothers and sisters and in the love of Christ know that our Lord is at work, building up the saints. You and I who call ourselves Christian have a Master. Not a boss. Not just a leader, but a Master. It is He who must lead because what we know is not enough to live the life into which He calls us. Come then into the life He offers and see Him as your Lord and Master.
Lord and Master Jesus, I too often assume what You said later in John when You called the disciples friend. That was only after they had been with you for three years. Lord, You are the Master. Lead me as You will, when You will, and where You will. Guide me according to Your goodness to see that in You alone is all my hope. Bring me closer to You, Lord Jesus, so that I may learn from You and follow You always. Amen.