Main Thought:
The blessing of a united people of God is extolled here. The images of oil on the robes of Aaron and dew on the mountains evoke a pleasant atmosphere. As Aaron was the brother of Moses, St. James was the brother of Jesus. Today we remember the important work James did in promoting unity in the early church.
Psalm 133
Behold, how good and pleasant it is
when brothers dwell in unity!
It is like the precious oil on the head,
running down on the beard,
on the beard of Aaron,
running down on the collar of his robes!
It is like the dew of Hermon,
which falls on the mountains of Zion!
For there the Lord has commanded the blessing,
life forevermore.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, You who are our Peace with the Father, because by Your blood you have reconciled us to Him, grant and preserve peace in Church and State, and teach us who dwell under the same roof to be of one heart and one mind. Remove from us all envy and strife, and let Your peace dwell in our hearts that we may live and die in peace. Amen.
A prayer for the festival of St. James, Brother of Jesus
Heavenly Father, shepherd of Your people, You raised up James the Just, brother of our Lord, to lead and guide Your Church. Grant that we may follow his example of prayer and reconciliation and be strengthened by the witness of his death; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.