When we envision people with wisdom, typically, we imagine a spiritual leader or mentor that has impacted our life. However, this morning, as you sit and enjoy the morning Jesus made, look at yourself and the wisdom that you hold in your own mind.

11 For through wisdom your days will be many,  and years will be added to your life. 12 If you are wise, your wisdom will reward you; if you are a mocker, you alone will suffer. -Proverbs 9:11-12

It is important to look at the story that is given to us in chapter 9 of the woman preparing the table for her guests. She has prepared the meat and poured the wine. Then, after it is ready to be presented, she calls everyone to the table. Much like this woman, who prepares before she presents herself, we must prepare our own hearts and our own wisdom before we can call out to our brothers and sisters around us.

The challenge today is to become more empathetic of those around us by reading and understanding the culture that they come from. Pick up a book from an author who does not share the same views as you, or read the beautiful stories of Jesus that our Muslim brothers and sisters share in the Quran. Set your own table by understanding where the people we interact with come from, and in turn, build relationships with those who think much different than you. This is building personal wisdom.

As you prepare today, consider these questions:

1. When you think of wisdom, who do you think of?
2. How can you strengthen your personal wisdom each day?
3. What is one thing you can do today to be more empathetic to those around you?

Each of us can benefit from one another’s wisdom. Be wise and know what you bring to the table today. The setting is not complete without you.