The limits of self-reliance

It is good to do good and to do it well.

It is good to develop the skills and the strengths we have received from God.

But today’s first reading (Amos 2:6-10, 13-16) reminds us that all of our human skills and strengths and talents, in the end, are not enough.

Flight shall perish from the swift,
and the strong man shall not retain his strength;
The warrior shall not save his life,
nor the bowman stand his ground;
The swift of foot shall not escape,
nor the horseman save his life.
And the most stouthearted of warriors
shall flee naked on that day,
says the LORD.

May we be prudent and faithful and do the best we can, but may we rely ultimately on the grace of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.