The Greatness of Wisdom

*GOSPEL THOUGHTS*

*Ordinary Season: Fourth Week : Wednesday*

*Gospel : Mk 6:1-6*

*First Reading : Heb 12:4-7, 11-15*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 103:1-2, 13-14, 17-18a*

*The Greatness of Wisdom*

*1) What kind of wisdom has been given him?*

The Gospel of the day has this particular phrase

This phrase is addressed to Jesus by people, especially who experienced the divine power through the words and deeds of Jesus 

This phrase calls us to reflect the extraordinary wisdom of Jesus and also the greatness of Wisdom 

*2) Wisdom of Solomon (1 Kings 3:5-14; Proverbs)*

Solomon, known as the wisest man who ever lived, received his wisdom as a gift from God. 

In 1 Kings 3, when Solomon prayed for wisdom rather than wealth or power, God granted him not only wisdom but also wealth and honor. 

The wisdom given to Solomon enabled him to discern between right and wrong, lead his people justly, and compose wise proverbs that have influenced generations.

Wisdom in Scripture is not merely intellectual knowledge, but a divine gift that leads to righteous living.

*3) Wisdom of Jesus*

In the Gospels, Jesus demonstrates extraordinary wisdom, especially in His teachings, which left His listeners amazed

As a child, in the temple He displayed an extraordinary understanding of God’s Word.

His wisdom was not based on worldly knowledge but on divine insight and His intimate relationship with the Father.

Jesus, as the embodiment of divine wisdom, teaches that true wisdom involves aligning one's life with God's will, not merely acquiring information. 

His wisdom was manifest not just in His teachings but also in His actions—showing love, mercy, and justice, demonstrating that wisdom and love are inseparable.

*4) Wisdom from Above (James 3:13-18)*

James talks about two types of wisdom

*Earthly wisdom*, which is selfish and leads to disorder

*Heavenly wisdom*, which is pure, peaceable, gentle, full of mercy and good fruits. 

The wisdom given by God is characterized by humility and peace, guiding believers toward righteous living.

Wisdom that comes from God is not just knowledge; it's a moral compass, marked by humility and a desire for peace. 

This wisdom leads believers to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God

*5) Wisdom in Proverbs*

The Book of Proverbs, often referred to as a guide to practical wisdom, emphasizes that wisdom comes from fearing the Lord (Proverbs 1:7).

Wisdom is portrayed as a valuable treasure, more precious than silver or gold (Proverbs 3:13-15). 

In Proverbs, wisdom is personified as a woman calling out to people, urging them to seek understanding and knowledge.

In Proverbs, wisdom is seen as a path to life, and rejecting wisdom leads to destruction. 

Biblical wisdom is a way of life that reflects God’s character and leads to flourishing in all aspects of life.

*6) God’s Wisdom in Creation* (Romans 11:33-36)

Paul speaks of the depths of God's wisdom and knowledge, which are beyond human understanding

God's wisdom is evident in creation and in His salvation plan, which is far more profound than human understanding can grasp.

Paul’s doxology emphasizes that everything in creation and salvation is the result of God's wise plan.

God's wisdom is infinite. While humans may not always understand the greatness of God's plan. Therefore faith is needed tob trust in  His wisdom and to accept it

*7) St Agatha and the Divine Wisdom*

She had a special wisdom from above. Which made her to 

To stand courageously before the Roman Emperor Decius.

To refuse to renounce Christ

To accept Jesus and to reject the temporary comforts of earthly life 

To accept martyrdom

To see the value of purity 

To fear the Lord rather than the Emperor

To bear witness to Christ

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*