James is bringing his letter to a close, and he adds a gentle admonition: be patient. These first-century believers were so eager for Christ’s return, they were becoming anxious and impatient. (Sometimes I feel that way myself!) These people wanted Christ to return and bring judgment on those who’d oppressed them. (I get that, too.) But they (and we) need to exercise patience. James included the example of how a farmer can’t expect a seed to grow and produce a crop over night. It takes time for the seed to sprout, to send down roots and send up a stalk before the fruit appears. James wanted his readers to exercise that same patience, enduring the wait until the Lord returned. He also told them to strengthen their hearts—to remain strong in their faith while they waited and not doubt that He would, at the “ripe” time, return. It’s fine to keep our eyes on the sky, eagerly anticipating His return. While we’re waiting, though, let’s continue to serve Him. Let’s not waste the time we’ve been given in fruitless pursuits. When He returns, may He find us about His business.