Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Isaiah 50:5-9a | Psalm 116:1-6, 8-9 | James 2:14-18 | Mark 8:27-35

"Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself,
take up his cross, and follow me.” – Mark 8:34

In this Sunday’s second reading, James speaks to the Jewish Christian community, emphasizing that both faith and works are essential for salvation. He strongly declares that “faith without works is dead,” (Jas 2:26) urging believers to reflect on the relationship between what they believe and how they act. While Jesus has already given us the free gift of salvation by taking our place and dying on the cross, James makes it clear that true faith cannot exist without showing itself through good actions. Mere belief, without accompanying good deeds, is insufficient for a genuine and living faith.

James is not suggesting that we earn our salvation through good works, but rather that our works are a natural and necessary expression of our faith. Simply claiming to be a Christian or professing belief in God isn’t enough. God, in His love, has given us free will, allowing us to accept or reject the gift of salvation. Our good works show our way of saying yes to this gift. Just because a gift is freely given doesn’t mean it will be accepted and received by everyone. James' statement serves as a powerful reminder that authentic faith requires a commitment to live it out through tangible actions. 

How can you actively portray your faith through good deeds?