I think every Christian should regularly read through the Book of Wisdom and every other part of the wisdom collection of the Scriptures. Why do I believe this? Because we live in a world where there are all sorts of powers and authority purporting to have wisdom, though it is questionable if there is really any wisdom at all in the vast majority of them. At least, it is questionable as to whether the truths they claim to represent actually have much bearing and relevance as regards eternal life. The world is very good at giving advice on how to get along with its ways and be successful worldly people. The problem with this is, it will not necessarily help us get to the goal of eternal life. The world’s wisdom is, if you can call it that, very short-sighted and without much relevance for the deeper aspects of human living. In other words, the wisdom of the world has about as much moral substance as fairy floss has matter and density.

These are fighting words, I know, but I think they are necessary ones we have to hear if we are going to avoid rushing headlong down the path of moral self-destruction and ultimately annihilation. Hedonism, drugs, alcohol, pleasure, lack of responsibility, lack of respect for elders, and so on are all growing at an alarming rate among our youth. And despite what conventional wisdom might argue, I believe it is at least as bad in the more
affluent portions of society as in the poorer ones.

The wisdom literature of the Scriptures holds at least a partial antidote to the present madness of society. The trouble is whether or not the world is willing to change its ways. At least, as Christians, we should have a natural respect for the Word of God. It is probably up to us to be the examples for the world to follow. This means that we need to take up the Scriptures to a greater degree and choose to live by them. Let us root out any compromise to the truth in our lives so that we can truly witness to the power of the Word of God to lead us to eternal happiness, truth and fulfillment.

Fr. Steve Tynan, MGL
Reflection Question:
Am I a child of the world or of the Word? Am I willing to be more committed to making obedience to the Word of God a stronger part of my life?

Jesus, You always lived according to the Word and will of Your Father in Heaven. Help me to listen to the wisdom You have for my life and to put it into practice.

St. Josaphat, Bishop and Martyr, pray for us.