Wednesday, December 17 – “O Wisdom from on High”

Scripture

“An account of the genealogy of Jesus the Messiah, the son of David, the son of

Abraham… Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who

is called the Messiah.” Matthew 1:1–17

Reflection

The Gospel opens with a long list of names, from Abraham to David, from exile to

restoration, from Joseph to Jesus. At first glance, it seems simply a record of ancestry, but

within this genealogy lies the story of salvation. Each generation tells of God’s faithfulness,

working through saints and sinners alike, guiding history toward the birth of His Son.

Today we also begin the O Antiphons, those ancient invocations that prepare us for

Christmas by calling upon Christ under His prophetic titles. The first is O Wisdom. Wisdom

is not mere intelligence; it is divine understanding that sees with the eyes of eternity.

Through Wisdom, creation was made; through Wisdom, salvation unfolds.

Advent now enters its most sacred days. The promise made to Abraham, the

covenant with David, the faith of Mary, all converge in this moment of expectation. God’s

plan, woven through flawed humanity, reveals a love that never abandons, never forgets,

never gives up. Every name in that genealogy bears witness: grace is stronger than sin, and

God’s purposes cannot fail.

As members of the EOHSJ, this reflection calls to mind your own participation in a

sacred lineage of faith and service. Just as Christ’s genealogy includes the righteous and

the repentant, so too the Order’s history unites saints and sinners, all striving toward fidelity

to Christ and His Church. You stand in that line of faith, charged to carry forward the

mission of the Gospel, especially in the Holy Land where this story began.

Let us, then, invoke the coming Wisdom of God to illumine our hearts and our

world, that we may see His design even in confusion and trust His plan even amid darkness.

Prayer

O Wisdom from on high, ordering all things in strength and sweetness, come and

teach us the way of truth. Enlighten our minds, steady our hearts, and guide us in the path

of Your peace. May we live as instruments of Your wisdom and love. Amen.

Meditation Question

Where do I need the Wisdom of God to bring light and order in my life? I allow His plan to unfold through my faith, patience, and trust?