Do you understand what you are reading?

That is the question asked in today's first reading (Acts 8:26-40) by Philip (one of the stars of the very first Diaconate class).

That is a question that we need to always keep in mind as we read the Scriptures.

The Holy Scriptures are the Word of God, but they are also written in human words and therefore they may be understood to a certain extent through the natural capabilities of the human mind and human science.

But ultimately the fullest meaning of Scripture is beyond the reach of human intellect alone.

Therefore, as we read the Scriptures, we must never forget to reach out beyond ourselves and call upon the gifts God gives to us - as individuals and as the Body of Christ - to understand truly and fully what we read and what God wishes to say.

For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,
and return not thither but water the earth,
making it bring forth and sprout,
giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,
so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth;
it shall not return to me empty,
but it shall accomplish that which I purpose,
and prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
(Isaiah 55:10-11)

O the depth
of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God!
How unsearchable are his judgments
and how inscrutable his ways!
"For who has known the mind of the Lord,
or who has been his counselor?"
"Or who has given a gift to him
that he might be repaid?"
For from him and through him and to him
are all things.
To him be glory for ever. Amen.
(Romans 11:33-36)

God has revealed to us through the Spirit.
For the Spirit searches everything,
even the depths of God.
(1 Corinthians 2:10)