St. James the Less was one of the twelve disciples selected by Jesus. His father was Alphaeus, and his mother, Mary of Clopas, was either a sister or close relative of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Because of the family connection, according to Jewish custom James was sometimes called the brother of Jesus. He was a witness of the resurrection, and St. Paul consulted with him. St. James the Less was the author of the epistle that bears his name, and he was the first Bishop of Jerusalem, guiding the early Church through violent persecutions. He was known as “James the Just” for his holiness, walked everywhere barefoot, and performed several miracles through prayer. The Scribes and Pharisees were enraged by his public proclamation of Jesus as the Messiah, and he was martyred by stoning in the spring of 62 AD.
CHALLENGE
St. James the Less is reported to have spent so much time in prayer that his knees and forehead thickened with calluses. How much time do you spend in prayer? Today, after your work for the day is done, turn off your TV, your cell phone, and your computer, and give that time to God in prayer.
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Deepen your love for the Sacred Heart of Jesus! The Sacred Heart Book of Devotions is full of prayers, litanies, meditations, and hymns that will enflame your love for the Sacred Heart!
