Dionysus on a Bike

Proverbs 1:1-7, 20-33 – 7/29/2026

Wisdom, knowledge of how to live well, is often thought of as some kind of elusive esoteric knowledge, attainable only after long initiation, arduous study and experience, and old age. It may be true that access to hidden knowledge, study, experience, and age can help one attain wisdom, but it is also the case that the truth about living well, true wisdom, is not hidden or difficult to attain. As the Proverb writer says, “Wisdom cries out in the street.” The good life and how to get it are not some hidden secret waiting for the right seeker to unearth them. What is needed to be truly good and happy and blessed is not that difficult to figure out.

Wisdom may be public and broadly accessible, then why is it in such sort supply, seemingly? People readily turn away from the good for selfishness and greed. An account of why this is is to give an account of human evil and the fall itself—topics for another day.

The search for esoteric knowledge and the secrets of the universe is worthwhile, but it is not the main search, the search for the wisdom to live well. That wisdom is right in front of our eyes and cries out from the streets, waiting for us to pay attention.

Revised Common Lectionary Readings for 7/29/2026:
Proverbs 1:1-7, 20-33
Mark 4:30-34
Psalm 119:121-128

Reflections of a Dionysian Lutheran, comments on the daily readings of the Revised Common Lectionary by Justin Marquis