jim henson

Friday's Mass readings talk about diligence--the virtue for the month of August.  The story of the wise and foolish virgins illustrates the importance of sticking with our faith even in tough times.  Mother Teresa of Calcutta was said to have endured a dark night of the soul for decades--a time when she even wondered if God existed.

Both she and St. Monica, whose feast was yesterday, lived out the faith even when it was difficult.

The first reading from Corinthians asks "Where is the wise one? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? For the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength."  


Jesus then tells us in the Gospel from Matthew, "Stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour."    


The wise virgins made sure they had enough oil to last them the night.  When the bridegroom came, they were ready.  Do we have enough "oil" to "last the night"?  Do we avail ourselves of the Sacraments, sacred reading and prayer to fill our own lamps with holy oil in anticipation of a long, dark night ahead?  


Today's "wisdom" is self serving and transitory.  Strength and diligence is necessary for the wisdom that comes from God.