The key word in both the scripture passages today is 'faithfulness'. In his letter, James stresses the importance of a faithful Christian life. Difficulties will surely come, and often a Christian is challenged by the ways of the world. James urges his readers to be faithful and to be patient for the coming of the Lord. A true disciple of Jesus is not afraid of the Lord's coming. Instead, he or she must long for it, and even hasten it through prayer.

In the meantime, they are not to grumble or complain against those who oppose them. They are to leave justice in God's hands. As models, they are to take the prophets who suffered for God's word, and Job, the example of patience and of God's generous rewarding. In addition, Christians are also asked to avoid judgemental speech and angry speech. They are also to avoid swearing. The only proper speech is blessing and praise - speech which helps build up the community.

The Gospel reading today touches on Jesus' teaching on the meaning of faithfulness in marriage relationships. Jesus makes it clear that it is not permissible for a man to divorce his wife since husband and wife share a covenant bond through marriage. At the centre of his message is Jesus' challenge to spouses to live in faithfulness until death. Does not the advice of James also prove useful to married couples? That is, they should avoid judgemental and angry speech, as well as swearing. Instead, they are to bless and praise each other so as to build up their marriage.