Wellspring of Scripture

 

Year B: 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading: Wisdom 7: 7-11
 

This passage may have made thought-provoking reading for the rich young man in today’s Gospel.

 

Wisdom and understanding cannot be bought but are gained only through the experiences of life. It is also a fact that they are most often gained through the most difficult experiences we encounter. It is when we face pain and challenge that we are most likely to reflect on what is happening and struggle to bring meaning from it.

 

When we have gained wisdom and clear sight, we learn that all the other things we could invest our security in are of little value in comparison.

 

This reading can be a useful reminder in our day when so many people believe that amassing wealth will lead to security and happiness. It is true that destitution inhibits the growth of human beings and leads to human misery - but excessive wealth can have a similar effect. Eventually, the external treasures begin to contrast with the emptiness of the inner coffers and people sense that there is something more that they need to find.

 

The example of St Francis and other saints who chose “holy poverty” can provide us with a model - not so much in the giving up of everything but in our attitude to what we possess. We can rest lightly on our wealth and cultivate an awareness of “enough” - an attitude of poverty: “I have enough to meet my need - I do not yearn for more”.

 

It is an attitude which can be liberating - setting us free from a grindstone to begin filling our souls with treasures which will endure to eternal life. We can expand our knowledge - reflect on life  - explore new horizons - and always, seeking the gifts extolled in today’s reading: the gift of wisdom and understanding.

 

What does it mean for me?

Waterlily What message does the Reading hold for you?

How can you seek more fervently the gifts of wisdom and understanding?

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