For the first reading today, we begin a quick trip through the Book of Wisdom. In the Gospel reading from Luke 17, Jesus talks about sin, causing others to sin, forgiveness and faith. Lots to cover in just six verses!
As is often the case, there is a “golden thread” that runs through today’s readings. In the reading from Wisdom 1, we read, “Because into a soul that plots evil, wisdom enters not, nor dwells she in a body under debt of sin.” Then in the Gospel reading, Jesus says, “Things that cause sin will inevitably occur, but woe to the one through whom they occur. It would be better for him if a millstone were put around his neck and he be thrown into the sea than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin.”
Godliness is a sign of wisdom. It seems to me to be kind of a circular relationship: the closer we get to God, the wiser we become; the wiser we become, the closer we get to God. This is because wisdom comes from God. It cannot be learned from books, and it does not necessarily come with experience. We can only gain wisdom when we seek God’s counsel. Only when we allow God to fill us with His wisdom (which, by the way, is a far cry from the world’s wisdom) will be truly wise.
Father, help us to always ask for wisdom from you alone. May we grow in wisdom as we grow closer to you. Amen.
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