Breaking Open the Word

In the first reading from the book of Proverbs, heightened sensitivity about gender issues may make it difficult for some people to appreciate this reading. The opening lines speak of a worthy wife and her value to her husband, which may lead some people to dismiss this praise of a good woman. This is one of the cases in which understanding the context of a reading is important. Proverbs begins with a depiction of Wisdom, personified as a woman. Wisdom is an attribute of God, to be sought by every person who wants to attain happiness, honor and wealth. The portrait of the woman at the end of Proverbs stands as a summary of the book, depicting a woman who has embraced wisdom in daily life or perhaps depicting wisdom herself. The woman portrayed in this poem is no weak person but a strong and resourceful woman who manages the household efficiently and profitably and who extends care beyond the hearth to the poor and needy. Like every reading from the scriptures, this text reflects its own times and customs. The tasks this woman undertakes and her relationship to her husband may not match the experience of most women in our culture today. But there is an enduring value to this portrait of wisdom personified. Like two of the servants in today’s Gospel, she used well the talents that God gave her.

The second reading is from Paul first letter to the Thessalonians. This is a wonderful reading for us today right before the end of the liturgical year. Having addressed the question of what happens to those already dead when Christ returns, Paul now turns his attention to those who are still living. The Thessalonians had apparently raised the question of the dates of Christ’s return. Such a concern has been common ever since. Paul responds as Jesus himself responded to this concern. He insists that we cannot know the day or the hour. The day of the Lord will come when we least expect it. When people grow complacent with an easy life, they will be surprised. The coming of the Lord will be as sudden as the onset of labor for a pregnant woman and as unexpected as a thief in the night. Believers need not worry, however, for they are already living in the light of Christ. They are not wandering in darkness but are aware that the kingdom is already present in the world. Those in darkness are living in sin and under the influence of evil powers. Christians, who live in Christ, have been freed from that realm and thus are already anticipating the final day of the Lord. The passage ends with an exhortation to stay alert and attentive to the Lord, anticipating his return.