One thing to be mindful off, when using the lectionary readings for prayer, is not to skip too hastily over the first reading which, for most of the year, come from the Old Testament. Linked to the gospel reading, these can also be reflected on as a stand alone text. Today's first reading is a good example. It comes from the wisdom literature which was written in Greek most likely in Egypt during the centuries after the conquests of Alexander the Great in about 330BC. Since they were written in a predominantly pagan context these Scriptures address the Hebrew religion in contrast to the wider world. The image we are given of God in today's reading is one of love and magnanimous creation. Rather than ruling through fear God is shown as constantly calling humanity back to himself to know his love for what it really is when he might otherwise be justified for condemning them in their sinfulness. It is something of an antidote to those who stress the wrath of God and look for reasons to wallow in the evil and tragedy of the world. So we read: "For your immortal spirit is in all things. Therefore, you correct little by little those who trespass, and you remind and warn them of things through which they sin, so that they may be freed by wickedness and put their trust in you, O Lord." (Wis 12: 2)
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