Daily Gospel Reflection for September 17, 2014

Today's Gospel: Luke 7:31-35

So many wise people live among us. Those in the medical field, in law, in philosophy, in cultural and social fields have worked hard and accomplished great achievements. Today's Gospel speaks of a different wisdom. It makes us stop and ask ourselves just how wise we really are. Are we still like children trying to put the puzzle of life together, thinking we have all the answers? What about the missing pieces?

St. Robert Bellarmine, whose feast is today, wrote, "If you are wise, then, know that you have been created for the glory of God and your own eternal salvation. This is your goal; this is the center of your life; this is the treasure of your heart. If you reach this goal, you will find happiness. If you fail to reach it, you will find misery." Bottom line, no matter how many degrees we have earned, how many books we have written, how many awards we have been given, the depth of wisdom is to recognize Christ in our lives and in the lives of others. Our whole purpose is to glorify God together in all we do. To understand this is wisdom. To recognize Christ's invitation to enter the kingdom, to rejoice as we travel toward Heaven, this is wisdom.

Are we more wise than those Christ spoke of in today's Gospel?

Ponder:

Do I seek a deeper relationship with Christ as passionately as I seek other goals in my life? Do I live in joyful hope of one day entering the Heavenly kingdom?

Pray:

"Oh Holy Wisdom, Soaring Power, encompass us with wings unfurled, and carry us, encircling all, above, below, and through the world." Amen. (From St. Hildegard of Bingen, who also celebrates her feast today)

Copyright 2014 Diane Schwind