don't be a damned fool; be wise
"Wisdom instructs her children." —Sirach 4:11
Jesus is our Wisdom (1 Cor 1:30). We must love (Sir 4:12), seek out (Sir 4:12), hold fast to (Sir 4:13), serve (Sir 4:14), obey (Sir 4:15), hearken to (Sir 4:15), and trust (Sir 4:16) Jesus, our Wisdom.
As we relate to Jesus, our Wisdom, He will instruct and admonish us (Sir 4:11). He will bring fear and dread upon us and discipline us (Sir 4:17).
If we pass these tests and our hearts are "fully with" Jesus, our Wisdom (Sir 4:17), we will:
- inherit glory (Sir 4:13),
- know God's love (Sir 4:14),
- judge nations (Sir 4:15),
- dwell in the Lord's inmost chambers (Sir 4:15),
- have descendants who inherit Wisdom (Sir 4:16), and
- receive a revelation of Wisdom's secrets (Sir 4:18).
However, if we fail the tests from Wisdom, we will be abandoned and delivered "into the hands of despoilers" (Sir 4:19).
At our Confirmation, a bishop or his delegate prayed specifically for us to receive the Holy Spirit's gift of wisdom. It is extremely important for us to accept this gift and use it wisely. Only the wise are ready for Jesus' coming (see Mt 25:2ff). Seek Wisdom.
Prayer: Father, send the Holy Spirit to me so that I will seek wisdom more than I seek pleasure.
Promise: "Those who love Your law have great peace, and for them there is no stumbling block." —Ps 119:165
Praise: Seeing how Marcia seeks Jesus her Wisdom in raising her children, many seek her advice about parental issues.
Reference: (For a related teaching, order our tape Confirmation on audio AV 47A-1 or video V-47.)
Nihil Obstat: Reverend Robert L. Hagedorn, August 1, 2002
Imprimatur: †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, August 7, 2002