22nd Week in Ordinary Time : Monday 29th August 2022

There is a vast difference between human and divine wisdom. Much human wisdom is based on worldly principles – power, greed, fear, competition, domination and dishonesty. The wisdom of Christ crucified – God’s wisdom – flows from humility, purity of intention, truthfulness, generosity, and absolute trust in God. It appears naïve and foolish to the worldly-wise. Paul was not an eloquent speaker or an impressive figure, and yet, he spoke with the spirit and with power. His weakness was a channel for the power of God.

Most have spoken foolishly and unwisely at least once. Herod was trapped by his witless promise to Salome. He promised to give her anything she asked for, –  even half of his kingdom. But her mother told her to ask for the head of John the Baptist. Herod knew it was wrong and did not want to kill John the Baptist, but  ‘saving face’ in front of his guests was more important. We should always choose our words carefully and never allow the opinions of others to lead us to sin.

Lord, grant me the gift of divine wisdom.