Memorial of Saint Teresa of Jesus, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
In both readings today, the wisdom of God is mentioned. God’s wisdom is unlike human wisdom, since God does not grow in wisdom, but God’s wisdom emanates from infinite love and mercy. God desires to share this wisdom with us, and reveals the fullness of this wisdom through Jesus. How can we seek and find God’s wisdom in our lives?
In the first reading, St. Paul tells the Ephesians that it is because of God’s wisdom that “He has made known to us the mystery of his will in accord with his favor that he set forth in him as a plan for the fullness of times, to sum up all things in Christ, in heaven and on earth.” (Eph 1:8-10) God desires to gather all creation back through His Son, Jesus, and God reveals this knowledge to us, so we will recognize his plan. God also is aware of our inclination to deviate from being welcomed into this Divine communion. In the first reading, God’s wisdom realizes that people from age to age continue to turn away from God and God’s messengers. Throughout time, people refuse to see God’s revelation. In particular, Jesus explains that the scholars of His day do not recognize that He is from God. It is Jesus who is the fullness of God’s wisdom among them.
How can we receive God’s wisdom, and what does it mean to live from this position? The wisdom of God is one of the gifts of the Spirit. It is essential to have an open heart and mind to receive this gift, and requires our humility as we acknowledge our dependence on God. Living in God’s wisdom is most perfectly demonstrated in the life of Jesus. Living a life of love for God and others, being compassionate and merciful to others, seeking true peace, and humbly serving others- these are the signs that Jesus demonstrated in His life. When we live as Jesus did, we are also thinking and acting with the wisdom of God. Through prayer, sacrament, and scripture we come to know Jesus. Our imitation of Jesus allows us to become disciples of Christ and live our lives in the wisdom of God.
Creator God, Your wisdom is infinite and beyond our understanding. Your Son, Jesus, demonstrates your Wisdom through His life, death and resurrection. Send down Your Spirit, so we may receive your wisdom and live out your love and mercy so all creation may be one in You. We pray in Christ’s name. AMEN
-Marylynn Herchline