24 Wisdom is right in front of those with understanding,
but the eyes of fools are off to the edges of the earth.
Reflection
As I began reflecting on this passage, I looked at the background of the Book of Proverbs to clarify its purpose and origins. It is part of the wisdom literature in the Old Testament, and it is believed to have been written over centuries. Imagine the amazing amount of wisdom gathered from the time of King Solomon (970–931 BC) through the time of King Hezekiah
(726–697 BC). The book likely reached its final form around 700 BC, during the reign of King Hezekiah. Its primary focus is the human quest to understand and organize reality, to find answers, and to pass on that information from one generation to the next. While the instructions are for young men who are entering adulthood, they are applicable to all of
humanity. Wisdom’s roots are in families where each generation shared insights with the other about how to live well. As societies became more structured, wisdom made its way through families to national and religious systems.
Fast forward to the 21 st century where we seem to live amid never-ending distractions. We may call it “multi-tasking” but it is a lack of focus. This proverb is even more relevant and valuable for us now than when it was written.
A wise person understands that the key to a good life is found not in chasing every passing desire but in staying centered on what truly matters. It requires intentionality, and a commitment to what is right. As Pastor Joe mentioned in his message on Sunday about the Wise Men: they followed the Star for about two years. When you are focused you do not stray from your course of action. You adjust your path, and you don’t quit. As Pete Seeger sang during the Civil Rights movement “Keep your eyes on the prize. Hold on. Hold on.” (The original reference is to Paul and Silas in jail. Phillipians 3:13-14)
The second part of this metaphor is not just about being distracted; it is about having a heart that is not grounded in God. When we wander aimlessly, chasing after worldly desires, we are missing out on the peace and fulfillment that comes from focusing on the Spirit’s presence in our lives. Spiritual guidance is like a compass or a star helping us navigate through the distractions of life so that we don’t lose our way. Scripture is full of that guidance if we take the time to read, to study, and to practice the teachings it contains.
by Kathleen Stolz
For Pondering and Prayer
As I ponder this proverb, I realize how important this lesson is, for small items in life as well as lifelong goals we focus upon. At various points in our lives different things require our focused attention. Some things are part of all human development, like walking, talking, reading and writing. And then others are life-choices like sports, creativity, education, marriage, parenting
and countless other things to focus on. No matter what we are focusing upon, or why we are focusing on it, we all must start at the beginning and then build upon it. We cannot run until we walk. Never stop asking for God’s help and guidance, as well as the guidance of others, to support you and keep you focused on your path.
Prayer: Creator God, I admit that staying focused is a challenge for me. Even in this moment, as I stumble through this prayer, I feel lost and distracted. Bring me back to you with these words from Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God.” As I slowly and rhythmically inhale and exhale, help me to repeat these words until I am focused again on you. Amen.
