One cannot be a Christian while remaining isolated from others. Our faith is one of community, and James celebrated the power of the community of faith. The prayers of the community healed those who were sick. It was the power of group faith. He even called upon believers to confess their sins to one another. There is tremendous healing and transformative power when the trust level in a group is high, as anyone who has ever belonged to a support group or intentional community knows. Building the quality of our community is one of the most important things we can do as believers. How much do we contribute?

Children were not held in high regard in the ancient world. More often than not they were considered a burden, and many children died in infancy. They were not granted honour or respect. Jesus insisted that they have access to him, for the kingdom of God belonged to them and those like them. Jesus wants us to be childlike rather than childish; in other words, not cynical or cruel. A childlike attitude is one that is open, generous, eager, and joyful, as well as being filled with wonder and excitement at what God offers us.