“The Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”  Proverbs 2:6

“Jesus said, ‘I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants.’”  Matthew 11:25

Growing up, I did well in school.  I had good grades, won third place in the county spelling bee, and was an Honor Student in High School.  I could memorize poems and speeches, Luther’s Small Catechism and Bible verses.  People said I was smart.  But I did some things that people said weren’t very smart, meaning I was not wise. 

I can look up statistics … how many are hungry or homeless, but do I respond with compassion, and action?  I can recite Emma Lazarus’ poem at the base of the Statue of Liberty, but do I try to understand the circumstances of refugees entering our country, then and now?  I don’t have all the answers, but apathy is not one of them. 

At church on Sunday, we celebrated one of our (truly) “wise elders”.  I recently celebrated my birthday.  Oscar Wilde wrote, “With age comes wisdom, but sometimes age comes alone.”  Hmmm … Have I only aged?  I often say that I have learned what is truly important – not what I have, but whom I have.  I may forget names or where I left the car keys, but I can still be insightful and appreciative, kind and caring.  I have learned that it is wise to ask for help – and to freely offer it to others, and to turn to God for guidance. 

Dear God, Thank you for the blessing of loving, caring friends and family who have helped me through times of uncertainty.  Help me see the needs of others and to react with empathy and action.  Give me the wisdom to trust your word for guidance throughout each day.  Amen

Verla Olson

Ministries
Teaching Mission Party