Citizen Columns
Question
What is more important, love or wisdom, and why?
Answer
Wisdom is more important, because it helps us discern how to love. Of course
love is at the center of Christianity, but there is a lot of confusion about
what this means. People can be said to "love" anything. Boyfriend,
girlfriend, family, children, money, fame, success, health, security,
pleasure, outlook on life, religion, country. These things can become the
focus of our desire, ultimate value and self-sacrifice. "Love" in any of
these cases might be a bad decision, as anyone who has made the wrong choice
of partner can tell you.
This is why wisdom in the Jewish and Christian tradition is valued so highly
as a divine gift. And this is why Solomon's prayer was so pleasing to God.
He didn't ask for long life, or riches or power, but for "a hearing
heart.that I may be able to discern between good and evil" (1 Kings 3:9).
For Christians, this prayer is most clearly answered through the example of
Jesus Christ. If we desire the wisdom to know how to love, we look to him.
Here is an Orthodox prayer for wisdom used by many at the start of each
day.
O Lord, grant me to greet the coming day in peace, help me in all things to
rely upon your holy will. In every hour of the day reveal your will to me.
Bless my dealings with all who surround me. Teach me to treat all that comes
to throughout the day with peace of soul and with firm conviction that your
will governs all. In all my deeds and words, guide my thoughts and feelings.
In unforeseen events, let me not forget that all are sent by you. Teach me
to act firmly and wisely, without embittering and embarrassing others. Give
me strength to bear the fatigue of the coming day with all that it shall
bring. Direct my will, teach me to pray. And you, yourself, pray in me.
Amen.
Father John Jillions
