James 1:1-3:18

Believers in humble circumstances ought to take pride in their high position. But the rich should take pride in their humiliation—since they will pass away like a wild flower. For the sun rises with scorching heat and withers the plant; its blossom falls and its beauty is destroyed. In the same way, the rich will fade away even while they go about their business. (James 1:9-11)

This is a challenging statement for me, because I believe that by the standards of the whole world I am very rich. No, I am not a millionaire, but yes, I do have wealth and possessions that the majority of earth's people do not have. As a citizen of the world, then, I should take pride in my humiliation.

Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment. (James 2:12-13)

Paraphrased, these two sentences above, mean to me: Give others freedom, especially the benefit of doubt concerning their motivations; show mercy. Are we humans "funny" or not? We want mercy for ourselves. We want to be given the benefit of doubt in "shady" circumstances. But for others appearing in "shady" circumstances, we want to rush to judge them. 

Lord, have mercy!