Matthew 11: 25-27
At that time Jesus said, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”
New Revised Standard Version, copyright 1989, by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. USCCB approved.
St. Bonaventure: A Model of Faith and Learning
In Matthew 11:25–27, Jesus praises the Father for revealing the mysteries of the Kingdom to the humble rather than to the proud and self-sufficient. This Gospel reminds us that true wisdom is not simply knowledge acquired through study, but a humble openness to God's presence and action in our lives.
Today, we honor St. Bonaventure, Doctor of the Church, who exemplified the harmony of faith and learning. A renowned theologian and teacher, he never allowed his intellectual gifts to foster pride. Instead, his knowledge deepened his humility, prayer, and love for God. He recognized that wisdom is first a gift from God before it becomes a truth to be understood.
St. Bonaventure's life teaches us that holiness and intellectual excellence go hand in hand. May we seek knowledge with faith, grow in humility, and allow Christ to lead us closer to the Father each day.
—Fr. Taroh Amede, SJ, a Jesuit priest from Chad, belongs to the West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus and currently serves as Development Officer for American Jesuits International.
Prayer
St. Bonaventure, faithful servant of Christ and teacher of wisdom, help us to unite faith and learning, humility and knowledge, so that our lives may always glorify God.
As the patron saint of those who suffer from bowel disorders, intestinal illnesses, and digestive ailments, we also ask your intercession for all who endure these afflictions. May they receive comfort, healing, and strength through God's grace.
Amen!
—Fr. Taroh Amede, SJ