We are invited in today’s Mass to reflect upon the profound wisdom of a great thinker and saint, Saint Thomas Aquinas, whose life and teachings continue to illuminate our path even nearly 800 years after his earthly journey ended. His enduring legacy reminds us of the essential elements of faith, learning, and truth that resonate deeply in our lives today. Although he was a Dominican, he has still a lot to teach us as Franciscans.
First and foremost, let us consider the value of lifelong learning. Saint Thomas dedicated himself to the pursuit of knowledge—viewing it not merely as an academic endeavor but as a sacred expression of worship. He believed that by expanding our understanding of the world, we deepen our relationship with the Creator. Learning does not cease when we put away our textbooks or when we finish university; rather, it is a continuous journey that enriches our souls and strengthens our faith. Let us embrace this calling to learn, to grow, and to explore the mysteries of God’s creation, no matter where we find ourselves in life. But let us never become arrogant in our knowledge, or too sure of ourselves, for God can change our worldview in an instant, like he did with Saul of Tarsus who was sure that Jesus was a fake. Let us always remember Francis’ admonition to Anthony – Study yes, but first comes your devotion and the spirit of prayer. Francis knew that a pursuit of knowledge could become vanity, if it is not linked to the service of God and his people.
Secondly, we are reminded that faith and reason are partners on our spiritual journey. In a time when many see these two concepts as contradictory, Aquinas teaches us that both stem from the same divine source. Faith guides our understanding, while reason helps us interpret and articulate our beliefs. Together, they lead us to a more profound comprehension of truth. It is our duty as Christians to engage our minds and hearts, allowing faith and reason to work in harmony, revealing the beauty of God’s creation and His divine will. We begin to discover more and more that there is no contradiction.
The third lesson calls us to grapple with truth itself. Saint Thomas did not shy away from difficult questions; instead, he embraced them. He engaged deeply with his beliefs, urging us to do the same. In our modern world, where opinions often cloud the truth, we must wrestle with the realities of life, including our beliefs, societal issues, and personal convictions. Saint Thomas teaches us that confronting these challenges with an open mind and a sincere heart is not only noble but necessary. Let us invite the spirit of inquiry into our faith lives, striving for a fuller understanding of the truth that God reveals to us.
Lastly, we find inspiration in Saint Thomas’s creative spirit. Beyond his philosophical and theological endeavors, he expressed his faith through music, composing hymns that continue to touch the hearts of many. This invites us to explore our creative side, recognizing that the arts can also be
a pathway to experiencing the divine. Whether through writing, music, or other forms of expression, engaging in creativity allows us to connect with God in ways that renew and refresh our spirits.
As we reflect on these lessons from Saint Thomas Aquinas, let us commit ourselves to a journey of lifelong learning, to the harmonious relationship between faith and reason, to the relentless pursuit of truth, and to the joyful expression of our creativity. May his example inspire us to grow closer to God and to serve our world with wisdom and love.
Amen.
Add comment
Comments