The Office of Readings for the start of Ordinary Time begins with the book of Sirach, and Sirach begins with a discourse on Wisdom. Most of us have read and heard this before, but it is worth reading and hearing again.
Sirach emphasizes the importance of “fear of the Lord”, which some translate as “awe and wonder of God”. He says that fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, the fullness of wisdom, the crown of wisdom and the root of wisdom. Wisdom was created “in the maternal womb”, he says; an interesting comment and perhaps an allusion to Jesus and the womb of Mary. He says wisdom is intoxicating for those devoted to her. From wisdom comes peace, health and greatness. Wisdom’s roots give rise to a long life.
All these blessings, all of wisdom, are identified with “fear of the Lord”. What this means is that all the blessings and gifts of God come only to a humble heart, a heart that knows itself only in relation to the wonder and awe of God himself. Greatness comes from humility. Wisdom comes from acknowledging the truth of ourselves. Wisdom is given to those who practice true humility; not self-depreciation but rather true humility in which we see ourselves as God sees us.
