Weekly Reflection

Attitude Change

Today’s readings ask us to re-think our attitudes and ways. The passage from the book of Wisdom reminds us that, when it comes to understanding, even the wisest person barely scrapes the surface of things.

In Paul’s provocative little letter to Philemon, the apostle praises Philemon for his understanding of the social order—which included slavery—and for his good treatment of Onesimus. Then Paul goes on to drop his bombshell. He tells Philemon that Onesimus is now a Christian and should be treated as such—as a brother, an equal. What was Philemon to think?

Today’s Gospel tells us that if we are to follow Jesus, we must do some serious planning. Then, once all our planning is complete, we have to be willing to accept the fact that our plans are never enough.