Ruth - Chapter 1 - Prudence

First of all I had to say that I enjoyed the Catechism quotes found at the beginning of the chapter. I use to think that the Catechism was too academic for us "lay folks" but once I started looking things up in it for a bible study that I was taking I found it to be very readable. It is a great resource for an understanding of Catholic faith and living.

This chapter was so different than the Introduction. Filled with stories, as examples, Fr. Groeschel conveyed the meaning of prudence in a way that I could understand it. I was trying to think of examples in my own life of life. It stated that the natural virtue of prudence assists people to organize their lives and activities in order to achieve the goal of a happy life in this world. ... It tells us how to pursue happiness. The supernatural virtue of prudence basically does the same organizational work but does so in such a way that we may come to eternal life. Examples of this came to mind. I have some organizational skills. I have used them to organize scout groups, soccer teams, my home and family. Now if they are just organized to function in the secular world then they are it is the natural virtue working in me but when I use these same skills to organize our family so that we pray together, attend Mass together, etc. these organizations skills take on a supernatural characteristics that can help us all get to heaven.
When I organize Catholic women's conference I use my skills but also take somewhat un-prudent, some would think, risks that we will be able to meet our expenses. So far, after seven years of offering two conferences a year, we have not had to take out a second mortgage to do so and many people have been blessed and brought closer to the Lord through them. I say this not pridefully but as an example that goes with how I read this chapter. We have to be prudent with the use of our skills and money but sometimes, when called upon, we have to also take risks.

I also liked the challenge to look at how I react to things. In confrontations events, do I put supernatural prudence before the natural. This asks me to look at things as Jesus would. What would Jesus say and do in this situation?

I don't know how I would do but it would be interesting to have a quiz trying to distinguish prudent vs in-prudent situations from a natural and supernatural level. I might have to reread the chapter.

I liked how the author gave us to list to help us discern prudence from foolishness.
1. Resolve to be prudent by following the Gospel teachings and the example of Christ.
2. Christians must clearly distinguish between natural prudence and supernatural prudence which seeks the kingdom of God...seeking the supernatural even when it is uncomfortable to do so.
3. We must decide when we must remain silent out of prudence and when we must speak up.

I loved the line, "There is nothing wiser than to follow Christ." Seek ye first the kingdom of God......

I can't wait to seek how you reflect on this. I have to rush off to a parish soup supper but I wanted to post before heading out of town for the weekend. God bless you all.