On the contrary it helps us marvel at the graces given in the humblest exteriors. Wisdom helps us understand that all that glitters is not gold. In this way the Holy Spirit prevents us from becoming preoccupied with human culture, the flawed politically correct thinking of this world, and the latest theological fads. Therefore, it enables us to focus on eternal truths, to make correct judgments in the light of eternity, and to delight in the things of God. Wisdom leads us to judge all things by their relationship to God, not so much as an intellectual enterprise, but from the perspective of our loving relationship with God. It directs the intellect, moderates the passions, corrects the affections and directs the will. Wisdom is the highest of the gifts because it corresponds most to the virtue of love, which is the loftiest of the virtues. As we approach the celebration of Pentecost let’s direct our attention to these marvelous gifts. In his gifts, Christians receive super-human powers that enable them to faithfully live a Christian life in ways that would be otherwise impossible. Today that same passage could be a fitting introduction to a sermon regarding the awesome presence of the Holy Spirit. Paul preached at the Areopagus using as his springboard an altar inscribed, “To an Unknown God” (Acts 17:23).
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