Scripture:
Reflection:
The first reading continues our dive into the book of Wisdom. Diving calls us to go beyond the superficial level into deep reflection. The first reading follows Paul’s example of enumeration of love in the thirteenth chapter of 1st Corinthians. Wisdom is given a beautiful litany of adjectives. Wisdom has natural goodness as intelligent, clear, and firm among others. Wisdom also has a supernatural goodness that is all-powerful, all-seeing, and pervading all spirits. Wisdom is the aura, or presence of God and the effusion of graces. Although not in plain sight, wisdom and the kingdom of God is present. The Lord pours out goodness and grace. Together with wisdom, God’s people become holy souls, friends and prophets.
We celebrate the lives of two female saints, St. Gertrude the Great and St. Margaret of Scotland. St. Margaret was known as the “pearl of Scotland” due to her tremendous impact on the country. In her wisdom, she held fast to prayer and devotion. She performed works of charity for the poor and the uneducated. St Gertrude rigorously studied Scripture and liturgy to draw closer to her God in prayer.
Wisdom is often used as a metaphor. Wisdom is like lightning that reaches end to end mightily. So will be the appearance of the Son of Man. The fruits of the kingdom are being revealed. With great wisdom, help us to be attentive to the fruits, Lord.
Fr. Phillip Donlan, CP, is the Associate Director of Ministry at Christ the King Passionist Retreat Center, Citrus Heights, California.