On this Saturday after the III Sunday after Pentecost, we reflect on the readings from Ecclesiasticus (Sirach) 24:14-16 and Luke 11:27-28. These passages, rich with spiritual insight, invite us to contemplate the nature of wisdom and blessedness through the lens of the Church Fathers.
Ecclus 24:14-16
“I was exalted like a cedar in Libanus, and as a cypress tree on mount Sion. I was exalted like a palm tree in Cades, and as a rose plant in Jericho: as a fair olive tree in the plains, and as a plane tree by the water in the streets. I gave a sweet smell like cinnamon and aromatical balm: I yielded a sweet odor like the best myrrh.”
In this passage from Ecclesiasticus, Wisdom speaks of her exalted position and her manifold blessings. She compares herself to various majestic and fragrant trees, symbolizing her beauty, strength, and the life-giving nature of her presence. The cedar, cypress, palm, and rose signify different aspects of her character: majesty, resilience, fruitfulness, and beauty.
Saint Ambrose, in his work on the duties of the clergy, reflects on the symbolism of these trees, noting that the cedar represents those who are exalted in faith, standing tall and unyielding. The cypress, which remains green throughout the year, symbolizes eternal life and the hope of resurrection. The palm tree, often associated with victory, signifies triumph over sin and death. Lastly, the rose of Jericho, known for its fragrant blossoms, represents the beauty of holiness and the sweet aroma of a virtuous life.
The sweet odor of wisdom, like cinnamon and balm, calls to mind the anointing of Christ, whose very presence brought healing and salvation. Saint Augustine, in his Confessions, speaks of the sweet fragrance of Christ that draws souls to God, a fragrance that Wisdom herself embodies and imparts to those who seek her.
Luke 11:27-28
“As he said these things, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, ‘Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts at which you nursed!’ But he said, ‘Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!’”
In Luke’s Gospel, a woman from the crowd blesses Mary, the mother of Jesus, for her role in bearing and nurturing Him. Jesus, however, shifts the focus from biological ties to spiritual obedience, emphasizing that true blessedness comes from hearing and keeping the Word of God.
Saint Chrysostom, in his homilies on the Gospel of Matthew, elucidates that while Mary is indeed blessed for her unique role, her greatest blessedness comes from her faith and obedience to God’s word. She is the model disciple, who not only gave birth to the Word made flesh but also kept and pondered God’s word in her heart.
Saint Augustine further explores this theme in his writings, highlighting that all who hear and obey God’s word share in this blessedness. He encourages the faithful to follow Mary’s example, embracing the Word of God with faith and allowing it to transform their lives.
Integration and Application
As we reflect on these passages, we are invited to see Wisdom not just as an abstract concept but as a divine gift that manifests in a life lived in accordance with God’s will. The Church Fathers remind us that wisdom, like the fragrant trees, is meant to be a source of beauty and strength in our lives. This wisdom is ultimately fulfilled in Christ, the Incarnate Word, who calls us to hear and keep His teachings.
Mary’s blessedness, as highlighted by Jesus, is accessible to all who commit to living by the Word of God. This call to obedience and discipleship is a central theme in the spiritual life, urging us to cultivate the virtues and wisdom that come from a deep relationship with God.
On this Saturday after the III Sunday after Pentecost, let us ask for the grace to grow in wisdom and to live by the Word of God, following the example of Mary and the teachings of the Church Fathers. May we, like the majestic trees in Ecclesiasticus, stand firm in our faith and spread the sweet fragrance of Christ’s love in the world.