Scripture for Mass
Wisdom 6:12-16
Psalm: 63(62):2. 3-4. 5-6. 7-8. Response: 2b
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Matthew 25:1-13
Due to the rapid advance of artificial intelligence (A.I.), computer systems not only store an unimaginable amount of information about innumerable topics but also respond to specific requests in seemingly imaginative and creative ways within seconds.
Moreover, there is the growing belief that computer systems will soon make it unnecessary for humans to engage in critical thinking or the creative exploration of ideas since smart phones will accomplish such mental tasks in a much faster and more comprehensive manner than even the most intelligent and gifted person. This leads some people to believe that everyone on our planet will soon be able to live wisely and well since all of us will have online access to ‘the best answer’ and ‘the right solution’ to almost every conceivable problem.
This line of thinking, however, confuses information with wisdom when, in fact, they emerge from divergent understandings of life and the world, and result in very different lifestyles.
On the one hand, our obsession with information and with the right answers arises from our view of life as a series of problems to be solved and the world as a set of challenges to be overcome. It reinforces our longing and persistent striving to manipulate the world to our own liking, resulting in frustration when that proves impossible.
Our yearning for wisdom, on the other hand, arises from our view of life as an adventure to be explored and the world as a mystery that continuously awakens wonder, terror and awe. It leads us to pursue glimpses of wisdom and goodness, as well as to moments of astonishment and gratitude when we realise that we in turn are being passionately pursued by wisdom and goodness along every step of our life’s journey.
Creator God, you already knew everyone and everything before the universe was formed.
You demonstrate your wisdom and love to us in every sparrow, every hair on our heads, and every grain of sand.
Awaken awe and gratitude in our hearts as we contemplate your loving presence in every nook and cranny of our world.
Help us to trust that your wisdom is frequently manifested in ways that seem foolish to our way of seeing things.
Grant us the humility to seek your wisdom, the trust to be led by you, and the peace that comes from surrendering all to your loving plan.
We ask this through Jesus who is your Wisdom and our Mentor.
Amen.
Fr. Tim Mulroy
