In Sirach 24:14-16, Wisdom proclaims, “From the beginning, and before the world, was I created, and unto the world to come I shall not cease to be, and in the holy dwelling place I have ministered before him.” This passage paints a vivid picture of Wisdom as eternal, preexisting creation, and continually present, ministering before God. It’s akin to the steadfast faith of Saint Blaise, who, amidst his healing and pastoral care, remained deeply rooted in divine wisdom, serving as a conduit of God’s grace and mercy to all those he encountered. The metaphor of Wisdom’s deep and life-giving roots, akin to a cedar of Lebanon or an olive tree blossoming with fruit, reflects the nourishing and sustaining role of divine wisdom in our lives, a principle that Saint Blaise embodied through his ministry.
Turning to Luke 11:27-28, as Jesus was speaking, a woman raised her voice and said, “Blessed is the womb that bore thee, and the paps that gave thee suck.” Jesus replied, “Yea rather, blessed are they who hear the word of God, and keep it.” This exchange underscores the true source of blessedness, not in physical or earthly ties, but in the adherence to and observance of God’s Word. Saint Blaise’s life exemplifies this teaching, as his blessedness was not derived from worldly honor or stature but from his unwavering fidelity to God’s commandments and his dedication to healing both the physical and spiritual afflictions of his flock.
Reflecting on these scriptures in the spirit of Saint Blaise, as presented in the Douay-Rheims Bible, we are called to a deeper appreciation of the perennial and life-giving wisdom of God, which sustains and enriches our spiritual journey. Saint Blaise’s legacy invites us to root ourselves firmly in this divine wisdom, to serve others with compassion and mercy, and to find our true blessedness in living according to the Word of God. In embracing this path, we walk in the footsteps of the saints, nourished by the wisdom that has guided the faithful through the ages, and secure in the blessedness promised to those who hold fast to God’s eternal Word.