*Quote submitted by Jill Costa, CBS Class of 2010:
Wisdom 9:16-18
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| Artistic Depiction: Lady Wisdom |
Scarcely can we guess the things on earth,
and only with difficulty grasp what is at hand;
But things in heaven, who can search them out?
Or who can know your counsel, unless you give wisdom
and send your holy spirit from on high?
Thus were the paths of those on earth made straight,
and people learned what pleases you,
and were saved by Wisdom.
Of course, the author of the Book of Wisdom, writing in about 50 BCE (BC) had an unusual viewpoint, for an Old Testament author (e.g., being "saved by Wisdom"). This author incorporated many of the ideas of Greek philosophy into traditional Jewish faith, recognizing the inspiration of God was working among diverse peoples.
Still, the Book of Wisdom comes to the same conclusion as the more traditional writings: Wisdom is a gift from God that cannot be earned or purchased; but it is essential for living lives of holiness.
When we encounter people who are different from us, are we likely to look for God's presence in them too, and in those encounters?
*Please feel free to send me your own favorite Bible quotation for publication in this blog, this week. Please include a full citation and the translation quoted.
