January 17, 2025

WISDOM VS FOLLY

Sirach 32:14-17

The man who fears the Lord will receive instruction,
And those who rise early will find His approval.
He who seeks the Law will be filled with it,
But the hypocrite will be made to stumble by it.
Those who fear the Lord will discover judgment,
And like the light they will kindle righteous deeds.
A sinful man will turn aside correction
And find a rationalization according to his will.

Personal Challenge

We live in a day and age where wisdom has been replaced by folly. Truth has been replaced with lies. We choose to follow our passions and desires because it feels good rather than pursue the truth whether we like it or not. Once again, Sirach provides some sound guidance in these times. Fear, or respect, God and receive His instruction, and sometimes His discipline. Work diligently for Him, no matter what you are doing, and you will find His approval. Seek His law, his commands, which are to love Him and to love our neighbor, and you will be blessed. By doing this, you will discover God's good judgment and will kindle righteous deeds in your life. But the opposite is true of those who choose folly. They will become hypocrites and stumble on the very commandments that draw us close to God. They will turn away from instruction and discipline and find rationalization for life in their own will and not the will of God for the good of others. Lord, have mercy! Lord, have mercy! Lord, have mercy!