In the Sacred Scriptures, numerous passages describe the Word of God. Over the coming weeks, we will engage in a intense meditation on this divine revelation, attempting to capture its essence. We will strive to discern its defining characteristics, listen to its irresistible voice, and contemplate its profound presence.
As declared by King Solomon in its opening lines, the Book of Proverbs aims to impart wisdom and discipline. It seeks to understand profound words, cultivate disciplined insight, attain uprightness, justice, and fair dealing. By following the advice distilled in these proverbs, disciples gain knowledge of God, but only through recognizing their own limitations in acquiring wisdom and humbling themselves in the presence of God. In this state of humility, the disciple discovers that every word of God is untainted and holy, serving as a shield for those who seek refuge in Him and refrain from adding anything to the divine Words. (30.5)
The Word of God is indeed powerful, but it is also respectful and honest. It prefers to persuade rather than to impose itself. The Word of God’s most abundant harvest is obtained when we obey, not when we subject ourselves to it. Obedience is the fruit of freedom, not fear. In fact, obedience is when we think with God’s Word and express ourselves with the mind of God received through the power of the sacrament of Baptism.
Under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we learn to spread God’s Word and break free from the constraints of this world’s spirit and language. With the Holy Spirit’s care, the Word of God takes root in our human nature, just as a grain of wheat does, and flourishes there, bearing fruit. The Word of God inspires us to carry out God’s works, preserving His holy presence in our time and material world. It helps us embody the image of our Heavenly Father and reflect His face in the image He created us to be.
Whenever we find ourselves tempted to converse in human language and engage in thoughts that align with our human nature amidst the deserts that frequently arise in our lives, let us remember to respond with the words of our Lord Jesus to the allure of evil, as stated in Luke 4.4: “Human beings do not live solely on bread, but on every word of God.”
During such temptations, we must remain vigilant and responsive to the Word of God. It demands our utmost care and attention, akin to a newborn baby, especially when we first begin to hear it within our hearts and minds. We must be cautious not to suppress or stifle this nascent life with human language and rules, hindering its potential to bear fruit within us. (Mark 7.13)
Let us enter the house of the Lord and become members of the Family of Jesus, those who have received the blessing of our meek and humble Lord, who declared, “My mother and brothers are those who hear the word of God and put it into practice.” (Luke 8.21)
