The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing,
but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. (1 Cor 1:18)
As I so often say when talking about a reading from the Book of Wisdom that is often used at funerals, the classic definition of a “fool” was one who did not believe in God.
We often use the word nowadays to mean someone who is stupid.
But it meant much more than “stupid”. It meant total disbelief in the One who created us all.
Paul refers to this in his first letter to the Church in Corinth when he states that the message of the cross is “foolishness” to those who are perishing. Why are they perishing? Because they refuse to believe in Christ, who gives eternal life to all who believe.
We should never be fearful about being labelled as a “fool” by the world. For it is the world that fits the classic definition of the fool. The world is steeped in sin and has long ago rejected the reality of God and the redemption brought to it by God’s Son, Jesus.
But to us who believe, Christ — and the “folly” of the cross — is truly our salvation.
FAITH ACTION: Not so as to upset anyone; however, if there is someone in your life or whom you encounter today who has rejected the reality of the Lord, gently invite him or her to reconsider his or her position. We have a responsibility to proclaim the Good News to our world.