32ND SUNDAY 8TH NOVEMBER 2026
In the Bible, Wisdom is understood not simply as human knowledge gained through education, experience or maturity, but as a reflection of God’s own divine Wisdom. It is through this Wisdom that God created the world and continues to guide humanity. Everything created is good insofar as it reflects God’s Wisdom. In the New Testament, Jesus is presented as the incarnation of both God’s Wisdom and Word, being the first-born and the fulfilment of God’s creative purpose. Since Wisdom is a feminine noun in Greek, it is often personified as a woman inviting people to her banquet. Although Wisdom can only be granted by God, He willingly shares it with those who sincerely seek it. Therefore, Christians are encouraged to remain spiritually awake and prepared to receive this divine Wisdom.
The second reading addresses the concerns of the early Christians in Thessalonica about believers who had died before Christ’s second coming. They wondered whether the deceased would miss the promised victory of Christ. Paul reassures them through the image of a Roman triumphal procession, in which a victorious general return with his army amid celebration. Similarly, Christians who have died will share in Christ’s victory, and those still alive will join them. Paul’s message is one of hope and confidence in the resurrection and the reunion of all believers. Although nobody knows when Christ will return, we can trust in God’s promise that death will not separate them permanently.
The Gospel reading presents the parable of the ten bridesmaids, emphasizing the importance of preparation for the coming of the Lord. In Jewish wedding customs, the bridegroom would come to collect his bride, accompanied by torches to celebrate the occasion. In the parable, five bridesmaids were wise because they brought oil for their torches, while the other five were foolish because they brought none. The oil represents good works and the spiritual preparation necessary for God’s kingdom. The central message is not simply about staying awake, since all ten bridesmaids fell asleep, but about being adequately prepared for the bridegroom’s arrival.
Ultimately, these readings encourage us to seek God’s Wisdom, remain confident in Christ’s victory over death, and live lives characterized by faith, good works and constant spiritual preparation for the joyful coming of the Lord.
Fr Jerome Otitoyomi Dukiya C.S.Sp.
