23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time
Readings: Wisdom 9:13-18; Philemon 9-10,12-17
The readings today remind us of two essential gifts that shape Christian life: wisdom from the Holy Spirit and relationships rooted in Christ. The book of Wisdom asks who can truly know the will of God unless the Spirit is given—and it is true, without His guidance, our thoughts are scattered, and we become distracted by passing concerns. It is only through the Spirit that we can discern what is lasting, what is holy, and what God desires for us. Saint Paul’s letter to Philemon then shows us how faith transforms relationships: Onesimus, once seen as a mere servant, is now to be received as a beloved brother in the Lord. When the Spirit dwells within us, kindness is no longer forced but flows naturally, and human bonds are elevated into communion in Christ. This Sunday invites us to open ourselves to the Spirit, to seek His wisdom in discerning God’s will, and to let our relationships be reshaped by the love of Christ, where generosity and kindness become the spontaneous language of our hearts. Let’s reflect: Am I allowing the Holy Spirit to guide me into God’s wisdom so that I can discern His will clearly, and do my relationships reflect the transforming power of Christ, where kindness and love flow naturally?
Don Giorgio