In today’s gospel (Mark 7:31-37) we hear of one of the instances where Jesus travels outside of his Jewish circles into pagan territory and performs a miraculous healing of a gentile.

In the letter from Saint James (James 2:1-5), we are advised to “show no partiality” as we live out our faith.

For me these scripture passages seem to point out our need to recognize that all of humanity comprises the chosen people of God, and our call to treat all those we encounter as equal children of God.   Regardless of differences in creeds, nationality, race, ethnicity, and social standing all of us are equally beloved by God, and each of us is called to recognize this in each other.  We are called to treat all those we encounter – no matter how different than ourselves – with kindness, understanding, tolerance, and forgiveness. 

Saint James most particularly emphasizes the need for us to not make distinctions based on wealth and social status – that we should treat the poor with the same level of respect and attention as the wealthy.   In fact James goes further indicating what really makes a person rich – not worldly possessions but that person’s relationship with God. 

In the  Old Testament reading today (Isaiah 35:4-7) we hear the prophet assure us that God shows no partiality either – that God is active in our world paying special attention to those in need.  God’s impartiality may have been best revealed in Jesus who always gravitated towards and identified with the poor, the downtrodden, and the oppressed.   This is God’s way.  Saint James reminds us that this must be our way also.  We are called to imitate Christ and to manifest God’s loving presence in our world especially towards those in need.  This is our call.  This is our privilege.