Wisdom Work and Welfare

The texts today from the Roman Catholic Lectionary offer wisdom for those who work in service of others. The request of the young Solomon for wisdom as he undertakes his reign as King of Israel makes us aware that we have limited ability within our own resources. Our intentions to do a good job will be influenced, perhaps mostly when we are tired and overworked by our own needs and desires. The grand plan we may have for the situations in which we work so often includes a bit for us. Some for you and some for me is a perfectly acceptable bargain for those satisfied with human standards. The relationship with God that Solomon seeks is the means to apply the Wisdom which moves us beyond the limitations of our own selfish tendencies to seek the Truth and act in the Way which is most in accord with the Will of God.  The psalmist praises God who directs the young with decrees which are as valuable as all riches. The decrees and the dialogue of the Spirit of God with our indwelling Spirit is facilitated by retreat to quiet places for rest and meditation. In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus is leading apostles to a time of repose when they encounter the crowds in which Jesus sees their need for attention and a shepherd to guide them. The compassion which He exhibits to minister to them while deferring the Good Plan for quiet communion with God is enabled and driven by the energy of Life from the intimate relationship with Love and Wisdom which transcends our limitations.