My Name Is James...
In the Shadows of the Twelve, a Witness to Christ’s Light
Dear Faithful of the Lord,
I am James, son of Alphaeus, often called James the Less. Perhaps due to my short stature, younger age, or the less prominent role I played among the more well-known apostles, my story within the Gospels is concise. Yet, in this brief letter, I hope to convey the depth of my journey with Christ and the profound impact His teachings have had on my life.
Born into the family of Alphaeus, it’s believed I may have been the brother of Matthew, the tax collector turned disciple. This familial tie to Matthew may have been one of the avenues through which I first encountered Jesus. To be called into His service, alongside my possible brother, was a grace beyond measure.
My calling was quieter, less dramatic than some of the others. There were no boats left behind, no tax tables abandoned. Yet, the call was clear and transformative. “And he appointed twelve, whom he also named apostles, to be with him, and to be sent out to proclaim the message.” (Mark 3:14, NRSV)
In the company of the Twelve, I witnessed the miraculous – the blind receiving sight, the lame walking, and the multitudes fed with a few loaves and fishes. But more than these physical miracles, it was Jesus’ teachings – His parables, His beatitudes, and His profound love for the marginalized – that reshaped my understanding of God’s kingdom.
My presence in the Gospels is subtle, often listed among the names of the apostles without further detail. In this quiet background, I found my calling. I learned that every follower of Christ has a unique path – some are called to be at the forefront, heralding the Kingdom with bold words and actions, while others, like myself, support, witness, and affirm through quieter, steadfast devotion.
After the ascension of our Lord and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, my journey took a new turn. Empowered by the Spirit, I joined in the mission of spreading the Gospel, though my travels and ministries remain less chronicled than those of Peter, Paul, or John.
The early church faced many challenges – persecution, doctrinal disputes, and the task of defining what it meant to follow a crucified and risen Savior. In these formative years, I served as best I could, guided by the teachings and example of Jesus, committed to fostering unity and love among the brethren. “Above all, maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8, NRSV)
Tradition holds that my life ended in martyrdom, a fate shared by many of the apostles. This, too, was a part of my journey of faith – to follow Christ not only to the breaking of bread and the sharing of the Gospel but, if required, to the laying down of my life.
To those who follow Christ in this age, I offer my story as an encouragement. You may feel unseen, your contributions less notable than others, but remember, in the Body of Christ, every member, every role, is vital and cherished by our Lord. “For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body – Jews or Greeks, slaves or free – and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.” (1 Corinthians 12:13, NRSV)
May you find peace in your path, whether it be in the limelight or in the quiet corners of service. Each act of love, every word of truth, contributes to the tapestry of God’s Kingdom. Walk in humility, serve in love, and trust that the Lord uses all for His glory.
In the grace and peace of our Savior,
James, Son of Alphaeus, Apostle of Christ.