First Lesson: Job 28:20-28

Theme: Wisdom as a divine prerogative

Exegetical Note
Typical of all the Wisdom literature of the Old Testament, this passage portrays wisdom as a kind of hidden treasure completely under the control of God, whose role as Creator is emphasized. From the human standpoint, wisdom and understanding are identified with religious awe (fear of the Lord) and righteousness (departing from evil).

Call to Worship
Leader: Brothers and sisters, wisdom is of God, and to be wise is to be godly.
People: UNDERSTANDING RESIDES WITH GOD AS WELL, FOR GOD IS THE AUTHOR OF ALL KNOWLEDGE.
Leader: For godly people, true wisdom is living in awe of the Creator.
People: FOR GODLY PEOPLE, TRUE UNDERSTANDING IS LEADING A RIGHTEOUS LIFE, FREE FROM EVIL.

Collect
All-wise God, who alone ha…