God’s Eternal Plan
In the beginning, life was pure,
God’s image in us, strong and sure.
No sin, no death, no darkened stain,
Just life and light, a perfect reign.
He crafted us with tender care,
Each breath, each heartbeat, His love’s share.
Not meant for death, nor for decay,
But to flourish in His way.
Life, so precious, sacred, bright,
Meant to shine with holy light.
In His will, we find our place,
Living fully by His grace.
Though sin and death may cast their shade,
God’s love and grace will never fade.
His victory over death is clear,
In His embrace, we have no fear.
So let us walk in righteousness,
With hearts of love and faithfulness.
For in His plan, eternally,
We find our true identity.
Pursue the path of integrity,
In harmony with His decree.
For life aligned with God’s own will,
Is life eternal, peaceful, still.
REFLECTION:
God formed man to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made him. (Wisdom 2:23)
God’s original plan for humanity is one of life and incorruption and made them in His image. Sin and death are not part of God’s original plan for humanity. He did not create death and does not delight in the destruction of the living. Everything He created is meant to exist and flourish. Life is precious and sacred, and that God’s intention is for us to live fully and righteously.
Living a life aligned with God’s will leads to eternal life. Despite the presence of sin and death, we are reminded of God’s ultimate victory over these forces through His love and grace. Let us pursue righteousness and integrity in all our actions, knowing that such a life is in harmony with God’s eternal plan.
Heavenly Father,
We come before You with grateful hearts, acknowledging Your original plan for humanity—a plan of life, incorruption, and divine image. We thank You for creating us in Your likeness, for life that is precious and sacred.
Lord, we recognize that sin and death were never part of Your design. You did not create death, nor do You delight in the destruction of the living. Everything You made is meant to exist and flourish, reflecting Your glory and love.
Help us, Father, to live fully and righteously, aligning our lives with Your will. Guide us to pursue righteousness and integrity in all our actions, knowing that such a life is in harmony with Your eternal plan.
Despite the presence of sin and death in this world, we are reminded of Your ultimate victory over these forces through Your love and grace. Strengthen our faith, Lord, and help us to trust in Your divine plan.
May we always seek to live in a way that honors You, embracing the life You have given us and striving to reflect Your image in all we do. Let our lives be a testament to Your love and a beacon of hope to others.
In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.
Pericope:
I. The Reward of Justice
EXHORTATION TO JUSTICE / THE KEY TO LIFE
Wisdom 1:1-15 / 2:1-24
First Reading | Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24
13 God did not make death, nor does he rejoice in the destruction of the living. 14 For he fashioned all things that they might have being; and the creatures of the world are wholesome, and there is not a destructive drug among them nor any domain of the netherworld on earth, 15 for justice is undying. 2:23 For God formed man to be imperishable; the image of his own nature he made him. 24 But by the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and they who are in his possession experience it.
Background:
The passages from the Book of Wisdom (Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24) offer profound insights into the nature of life, death, and God’s intentions for humanity. Here’s a brief background:
Context and Authorship
The Book of Wisdom, also known as the Wisdom of Solomon, is part of the Apocrypha, a collection of ancient texts included in some Christian Bibles but not in the Hebrew Bible. Although traditionally attributed to King Solomon, it was likely written by an anonymous Hellenistic Jew in the late first century BCE or early first century CE. The author aimed to demonstrate the superiority of Jewish wisdom in a context familiar with Greek philosophy.
Key Themes
God’s Creation and Life: Wisdom 1:13-15 emphasizes that God did not create death and does not delight in the destruction of the living. Instead, everything God created is meant to exist and flourish. This passage highlights the inherent goodness and purpose of creation, affirming that righteousness is immortal.
Human Destiny and the Fall: Wisdom 2:23-24 explains that God created humans for incorruption and made them in His image. However, through the envy of the devil, death entered the world, and those who belong to the devil’s company experience it. This reflects the belief that sin and death are not part of God’s original plan but are consequences of turning away from Him.
Relevance and Application
These verses provide comfort and hope, especially during challenging times. They remind believers that God is the author of life and goodness, and that death and destruction are contrary to His will. This understanding encourages a life of righteousness and faithfulness, trusting in God’s eternal plan and sovereignty.
Learning Lessons:
The passages from Wisdom 1:13-15 and 2:23-24 offer profound lessons that can deeply enrich our spiritual journey. Here are some key takeaways:
1. God as the Author of Life. Wisdom 1:13-15 teaches us that God did not create death and does not delight in the destruction of the living. Everything He created is meant to exist and flourish. This reminds us that life is precious and sacred, and that God’s intention is for us to live fully and righteously.
2. The Nature of Righteousness. The passage emphasizes that righteousness is immortal. Living a life aligned with God’s will leads to eternal life. This encourages us to pursue righteousness and integrity in all our actions, knowing that such a life is in harmony with God’s eternal plan.
3. The Origin of Death and Sin. Wisdom 2:23-24 explains that God created humans for incorruption and made them in His image. However, through the envy of the devil, death entered the world. This highlights the spiritual battle between good and evil and reminds us that sin and death are not part of God’s original plan for humanity.
4. Hope and Redemption. These verses offer hope by affirming that God’s original plan for humanity is one of life and incorruption. Despite the presence of sin and death, we are reminded of God’s ultimate victory over these forces through His love and grace.
Practical Applications
Embrace Life: Cherish and respect the life God has given you. Engage in activities that promote life and well-being.
Pursue Righteousness: Strive to live a life of integrity and righteousness, knowing that it aligns with God’s eternal plan.
Resist Temptation: Be aware of the spiritual battle and resist the temptations that lead to sin and death.
Hold on to Hope: In times of difficulty, remember that God’s plan is for life and incorruption. Trust in His love and grace to guide you through.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
