Complacency in our lives, self-satisfaction, is like a filmsy bubble that can be burst easily by the pinprick of the spirit of wisdom. Today's Reading from the Book of Wisdom gives us part of a speech by Solomon. He praises the gift of wisdom that he has been blessed with, wisdom which is not just learning and knowledge but a precious gift of the Holy Spirit, the gift of deep understanding. He derides power and riches, health and beauty as unworthy, whilst wisdom is incomparably to be valued because it is totally rewarding.

Complacency in the lives of all created things is also attacked by the Word of God, says the Letter to the Hebrews. The Word of God is "alive and active" and because it is sharper than a two-edged sword, no one can be complacent when reminded that "everything is uncovered and open to the eyes of the one to whom we must give account of ourselves."

In today's gospel reading, the final word on complacency comes in the incident of the rich young man who approaches Jesus with his question. He sincerely wants to "inherit eternal life", i.e something lasting and of absolute value. While well-intentioned, he cannot accept the words of wisdom, the invitation issued by Jesus to "go and sell everything you own... then come, follow me." It is a shock to him to have his complacent reliance on his riches pricked by this request to establish a good relationship with God and with other people.