In Greek mythology, Prometheus is the Titan god of fire. He defies the other gods by stealing fire and giving it to humanity to advance their civilization. The gods he defies are infuriated with Prometheus and he is punished for helping humanity. In contrast to Greek mythology, we have a much different God described in our readings today. A God who brings justice and peace. A God who hears the cry of the poor and has pity for the lowly and afflicted. In contrast to the Greek gods who were reluctant to help humanity, our 1st reading from Isaiah today provides us a list of gifts that our God freely gives us. These Gifts of the Holy Spirit are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord. Isaiah prophesied the Messiah would have these gifts and we know that He freely shares them with us through the Holy Spirit. These gifts are endowed to every Christian at their baptism and sealed in the Sacrament of Confirmation. These are also known as the sanctifying gifts of the Holy Spirit because they allow us to be open to His direction in our life. If we are receptive to His guidance we can develop the childlike faith and understanding mentioned by Jesus in the Gospel. Let us pray today for the wisdom to recognize these gifts in our lives and the strength to use them to help others. Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth.
O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations, Through Christ Our Lord, Amen.