Scripture:
Wisdom 2:23:3:9
Luke 17:7-10
Reflection:
The book of Wisdom was revolutionary for me. I found and explored this book as an 18 year old and began to pray for wisdom. I discovered that more than an attribute or virtue, wisdom is a living Spirit. Chapter 7 attests to this us as we read, "In her is a Spirit that is holy, intelligent…" as well as many other qualities. As we journey through life, it is the spirit of wisdom who guides us and prepares us for what is to come.
One might define the virtue of wisdom as the learning that comes from experience. Another definition that I love is "doing today what you will be happy with tomorrow." Wisdom prepares us for what is to come in the short and long term.
In the month of November, the days shorten, the clocks fall back and darkness is prevalent. We celebrate saints and remember souls. We reflect and meditate on our own inevitable death. We pray to be worthy.
Wisdom teaches us to live "ready" as we heard in Sunday’s reading. Our oil must not run out. We must be ready for tomorrow. We become ready when the circumstances and trials in our life try our character and purify us "like gold in the furnace." We follow wisdom when we deepen our walk with God. We fulfill our destiny when we push the boundaries, reach for our potential and make a difference in peoples’ lives.
This time of year points to our end and invites us to live "ready."
Fr. Cedric Pisegna, C.P. is a missionary preacher, author of 15 books and creator of television and radio programs airing in many cities. You can learn more about his ministry at: http://www.frcedric.org/