Saturday, February 13, 2021

Desursum | Wisdom from Above

“But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peace-loving, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial, free of hypocrisy” – James 3: 17 (NASB)


Image by Jeff Juit from Pixabay


My dear brothers and sisters,

We have many opportunities to use wisdom to rebuke, lead, and teach our neighbors or families.  At that time we need wisdom that comes out of gentleness so that the actions we take are good and in accordance with God's will. I want to say that gentleness doesn't mean weak or sweet, but true and firm.

This passage shows us that there are two kinds of wisdom. First, wisdom that comes from above – from Heaven.  It is pure, peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere (verse 17). The purpose of this wisdom is to fulfill what is wanted from Heaven among us on this Earth. As taught by the Lord Jesus in his prayer – The Lord’s Prayer: “Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven”.

Second, the wisdom that comes from this world. It comes with jealousy, selfishness, boasting, lying, confusion, and all evil deeds (verses 14-16).  We must realize that whoever keeps such wisdom must end up in punishment.  The Bible says that the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).

Brothers and sisters,

As God’s people, we must have the wisdom from above. How do we get it? Heaven is a source of great wisdom.  Therefore, to get this wisdom, our life must have a connection with Heaven.  We must build a good relationship with God through our prayers and worship God earnestly. When we pray and worship God sincerely and seriously, we are connected to Heaven.

So, my brothers and sisters,

Let us have the wisdom that comes from above, by praying and worshiping God earnestly – thus connected with Heaven.  May we seek that heavenly wisdom.

 Reflection on James 3: 13 – 18 by Fr. Risco Batbual, SVD 


 (Listen to the Podcast here)

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