St Martin of Tours, Bishop
32nd Week in Ordinary Time : Monday 11th November 2019
Wis 1:1-7; Ps. 139(138):1-3,4-6,7-8,9-10
Lk. 17:1-6 (Ps Wk IV)
Wisdom is a gift from God offered to all. But there is a condition — perverse thoughts shut us off from God, and Wisdom will not enter a deceitful soul. Since Wisdom comes from God, it cannot be used for personal gain or to oppress others. Only a humble and sincere heart and soul will have room for the beautiful gifts that Lady Wisdom has to offer. The first step in acquiring wisdom is to admit how little we know and how much we need enlightenment.
Many find it difficult to forgive someone even once. Luke insists that we have to be prepared to forgive the same person seven times a day — even for the same sin! Definitely a hard saying! But that is how God forgives us, and we can do no less. The gospels are clear: forgiving others is not optional; it is essential. Joined with this is faith — not doctrine, but absolute trust in God and belief in God’s power and promises. Even a tiny bit of genuine faith can move mountains, while an equal amount of doubt can undo miracles and undermine God’s work.
Lord, deepen our faith and willingness to forgive.