Memorial of Saint Scholastica, virgin
Although little is known about St. Scholastic’s youth, we do know that she was a twin from a wealthy family. Her and her brother Benedict joined religious orders that were separated by five miles. Over their lifetimes they grew deeply rooted in the Lord and closer to one another. The readings today are well suited to celebrate a woman who seemed so wise in her faith.
In the first reading, the queen of Sheba is visiting King Solomon whom she has heard is one of the wisest people in the world. Her visit allowed her to experience his wisdom first hand. Not only was the queen of Sheba able to ask any question from her interest, but Solomon was able to answer all of her questions. She was so awestruck by Solomon’s wisdom that the scripture says she was left “breathless”. What leaves us breathless? What is God trying to say to us in those moments of awe? Perhaps God is trying to answer one of our own nagging questions.
Life contains many mysteries to which answers might never be revealed to us. The psalm response for today supports the idea us that wisdom may be revealed to those who trust in God. The psalm even gives us a process. First, commit to the Lord in the ways you live. Second, trust in God, so that there is a foundation through which God can act. If this seems too complicated, the psalm says it another way. The one who has the law of God on their heart will not falter.
Certainly the disciples who had Jesus in their midst carried God’s love in their hearts. Yet even Jesus’ presence did not always guarantee their understanding, as we see in today’s Gospel. Of course when Jesus tries to give answers to his disciples, it sometimes lies beyond their grasp. This is often the case for us as well. If we do not understand, let us ask God questions, more importantly let us allow God to answer them or teach us through which ever approach God might choose. What is essential is that we remain open to the ways in which God is trying to speak to us.
For example, let’s say an agnostic husband and wife have had trouble getting pregnant. In-vitro fertilization was the only method through which they could become pregnant. Now one of the spouses has been working hard to deeply enter into a relationship with Christ through the Church. Despite years of infertility their new depth of faith has resulted in a natural pregnancy. Honestly, the couple sees it as a miracle and a direct sign from God that they are on the right path. Not all signs are this profound, but often when we are wise in our faith, these signs can give us refuge in times of distress.
-Michael Montgomery