In today’s second reading, St. James challenges us to reflect on where our conflicts and issues come from. Ultimately, he says, they come from our passions—in other words, our wants, needs, and desires. Our passions and disordered affections cause us to seek after things that do not give us inner peace.
When we seek after the wrong things, they cause conflict within us. Think about the person who desires a particular object and does everything to obtain it. Once they get it, that object becomes just another thing in their closet or house. Madison Avenue has built many a fortune by preying on people’s passions. Beanie Babies, Xboxes, Corvettes, shoes, purses—and the list goes on—were purchased by people whose passions were fueled by a clever ad campaign.
As James correctly notes, the cycle repeats itself time and again. So how do we “stop the insanity?” Start by focusing on the first part of today’s second reading: cultivate peace and wisdom. In our prayer, ask the Lord to give us the wisdom to seek after those things that quell our passions and give us true peace and satisfaction. Instead of seeking to be happy, pray for contentment. Instead of trying to fill our closets with things, fill our hearts with gentleness, compassion, mercy, and sincerity. Instead of asking, think about giving.
