Dear Friends,

 In recent weeks the readings have encouraged us to live wisely, with wisdom from God and to be prepared for Jesus’ coming. The reading from Proverbs holds before us a wise woman.  Everything good in her family’s life springs from the heart of this virtuous woman. The family’s life revolves around her; she is the sure foundation of happiness for her husband and children. This image of a good woman is so powerful that it is used as a metaphor for WISDOM ITSELF. However, anyone who possesses wisdom in life is likened to the power and influence of this virtuous woman. Just as a good woman fosters prosperity and happiness for those around her, so too does every wise person in this world bring light and joy to others. For Christians, the great embodiment of wisdom is JESUS ​​HIMSELF.

In the Gospel Jesus has some strong words regarding wise people and foolish people. Jesus addresses the Parable of the Talents to the Pharisees. They are like the wicked servant who buried his talent in the ground. They consider themselves better than others. They are afraid to show compassion and empathy toward those around them. They refuse to invest their spiritual knowledge and wisdom for the benefit of the people. Jesus called them "useless."

Therefore, Jesus grants us the talents and Wisdom, so that we may live and invest in the Kingdom. Mindful of the differences people experience in life—wealth or poverty, health or illness, care or neglect—we are called to respond to the gifts and grace we have received by making a genuine, lifelong effort to be good and faithful servants.

What are these talents/gifts that we have received? We have received the gift of new life and the Holy Spirit through baptism: a living faith, accompanied by the theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity; the sacraments, especially the Eucharist; the Bible; a vibrant community, prayer, a long tradition of Christian life and our own personal talents and abilities. We possess all the tools we need to serve the Kingdom and attain heaven.

We must live in the present while keeping our eyes fixed on the future. We have only one life, and we should live each moment as if it were unique—with kindness, authenticity, and honesty—always seeking to do good, with a watchful spirit. In this way, as in the Gospel, if we act accordingly, the Lord Jesus will say to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant! Come and share the joy of the Lord!”