"To one who has faith, no explanation is necessary. To one without faith, no explanation is possible." -Thomas Aquinas

Faith is a gift from God, and we receive it freely. And most importantly, we must respond to this invitation of the gift of faith. St Paul, in the first reading, puts it succinctly: "The language of the cross may be illogical to those who are not on the way to salvation, but those of us who are on the way see it as God's power to save."

He compares three groups of people in terms of faith; namely, the Jews (believers in the one God) look for short-term miracles, the Greeks (unbelievers) strive after worldly wisdom, and the Christians (believers) gaze at the crucified Lord. The wisdom of the Greeks (or the world) tends to view the faith of the Christians as foolishness, while the Jews (believers of the law) see them as an obstacle. But all, whether Jews or Greeks, can be called to faith in Jesus Christ, who is the power and wisdom of God.

However, it is also crucial to have sensible minds to have faith. Faith and reason go together. Just like the parable of the wise and foolish virgins, we must know how to prepare extra oil for our lamps. The wait for the arrival of the bridegroom may take a long time; our faith needs patience and perseverance. Therefore, it is wise to prepare for this long journey of faith. God has given us the power for human reasoning. We are to make use of it.