Wisdom - May 29, 2024

Today’s Readings: AM Psalm 38; PM Psalm 119:25-48
Prov. 17:1-20; 1 Tim. 3:1-16; Matt. 12:43-50

In high school, I remember reading parts of the Bible. There were books – mainly those outlining the laws and the Hebrew prophets – in which I would feel lost or confused, uncertain of the plot or point. I would often give up or fall asleep. A few sections made sense, or at least were more interesting. The wisdom literature of the Book of Proverbs was captivating to me. I read through the verses looking for pithy quips and made notes. As my mom began getting grey hair (and complaining about it), I found this line of wisdom: ”Grey hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.” (Proverbs 16:31) I wrote it on a green piece of card stock and gave it to her. She kept it taped to her dresser mirror.

The excerpt from Proverbs appointed for today stirred that long-ago memory. Two of these verses stand out as I sit with this scripture:

The beginning of strife is like letting out water; so stop before the quarrel breaks out. (Proverbs 17: 14)

A friend loves at all times, and kinsfolk are born to share adversity. (Proverbs 17:17)

These verses are not widely known or repeated as aphorisms in the ways they are written. And yet, they speak two pieces of truth connected to what it means to be in harmonious relationship with one another. First, when we have tension between or among us, it is important to be aware that terse words of criticism build up and can lead to a flood. So, it is best to disrupt that dangerous flow of energy to stem destruction and preserve wellbeing. Second, the wisdom writer speaks to how friends and family are present for us in healthy ways. Friends love faithfully, no matter what. And our “heart people” – kinsfolk – are in our lives to sit with us in the hardest of times.

What of this wisdom literature resonates with you this day? Slow down and sit with this scripture. Read it out loud. Listen for what leaves you in awe. Make notes of what questions you have. Record the insights that bubble up. And maybe, reading this piece of Holy Scripture gives you a boost, or inspires you to share a verse with someone in your life. Ponder the wisdom of an ancient people trying to live in community while striving to be obedient to God.

With God’s help,

Katherine+

Reflection and Challenge

Write down a piece of today’s reading from Proverbs 17 that feels like a reminder to stay in healthy relationship with those closest to your heart. As you feel moved, share this verse with someone dear to you.