Interior of the Church of the Light
Tadao Andò„, 1999
Dear brothers and sisters,
Today, as we gather to reflect on the word of God, I would like to share with you some insights on 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, a passage that offers profound wisdom on the meaning of the cross and the foolishness of worldly wisdom.
The apostle Paul reminds us that the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. This message challenges the conventional wisdom of the world, which values strength, success, and self-sufficiency. Instead, it speaks of a radical love that is willing to suffer for the sake of others.
As we contemplate the message of the cross, we are invited to question our own values and priorities. Are we more concerned with impressing others or with serving them? Are we seeking to accumulate wealth and power, or are we using our resources to make a positive impact on the world? The message of the cross calls us to a higher standard of living, one that prioritizes love, compassion, and selflessness.
Paul goes on to explain that God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. In other words, God often works in ways that confound our expectations and challenge our assumptions. We may think we have all the answers, but the truth is that our knowledge is limited, and there is much we do not understand.
This is particularly relevant in our current age, where science and technology have made great strides, but where we are still faced with many complex challenges. Climate change, global inequality, and social unrest are just a few examples of the problems that require innovative solutions and a willingness to think outside the box.
Paul reminds us that God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the strong. In other words, it is often the marginalized and vulnerable who have the most to teach us. We should listen to their stories and perspectives with humility and empathy, recognizing that they may have insights and wisdom that we have not yet considered.
Finally, Paul emphasizes that we should not boast in ourselves, but in the Lord. This is a call to humility and gratitude, recognizing that all our gifts and accomplishments come from God. We are not self-made individuals, but rather part of a larger community of faith and humanity.
The message of 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 challenges us to reexamine our values, to question our assumptions, and to approach the world with humility and compassion. As we continue on our spiritual journey, may we be open to the wisdom of the cross and the transformative power of God's love. May we seek to live lives of service and selflessness, and may we give thanks for all the blessings we have received.