The Importance of Humility

There are many truths that may be discovered by the use of reason alone. There are others that may be known only by faith. When it comes to truths we know by way of reason, it is extremely important that we remember what St. Thomas has said about this - namely, that it is difficult to arrive at truth by way of reason. Given this fact, and given that we are limited both in our gifts and resources, it is wise for us to bear in mind the words of Sirach:

Do not try to understand things that are too difficult for you, or try to discover what is beyond your powers. Concentrate on what has been assigned you, you have no need to worry over mysteries. Do not meddle with matters that are beyond you; what you have been taught already exceeds the scope of the human mind. For many have been misled by their own presumption, and wrong-headed opinions have warped their ideas. [Ecclus. 3:21-26, JB]

St. Thomas, pray for us that we may be humble, understanding our own frailties as we seek to understand what we may, remaining steadfast at all times in the Faith of the Church.