Notes from Yukiko’s Desk

There is a focus on “wisdom” throughout today’s passages. In Proverb 9, the first reading which begins;

1.Wisdom has built her house; she has hewn her seven pillars.

2.She has slaughtered her animals; she has mixed her wine;
    she has also set her table.

As you would have noticed, that “wisdom” is personified as a woman. This is perhaps in part because, in Hebrew, “wisdom” is a grammatically feminine noun. However, I believe the association of divine “wisdom” with the feminine is not accidental.

Here is “wisdom,” depicted as a woman, in powerful contrast to the many male characters that we have met so far in the Old Testament readings. This woman is no frail creature, but strong, down-to-earth, and able to turn her hand to all the tasks of running and governing a household. “Wisdom” is actively seeking people – particularly the “simple” and “those without sense” into her household to dine and become part of her community.  What a great news! Here are some questions for us to ponder.

 Could we think of any experiences of wise behaviour or living? What other characteristics or values do we associate with wisdom? How do we get it? Is it purely a gift from God or can we become wise through practice and effort?

Finally, I am inviting you to explore what Paul challenges us in today’s reading; How might this influence the ways we seek to live as “wise people”? (Ephesians 5:15)

 Joyfully in Christ