My Grandma went by the name "Sophie" her entire life. So, when I learned that her full name was Sophia, I was taken back. “Grandma, why did you choose to go by Sophie all your life when you have the loveliest name, Sophia?” I asked her. Quickly she barked back, “I never liked it! I was only called Sophia when I was in trouble.”
Sophia is an expression of the feminine aspects of God, and ever since I learned the biblical figure Sophia, or Wisdom, was more than a metaphor, I wanted to name a future daughter this name. I know we often think of wisdom as simply a book in the Bible or a Gift of the Holy Spirit we call upon for an exam, but she is so much more.
Chapter 7 of the Book of Wisdom gives us twenty-one attributes to help ponder her divine splendor:
Intelligent
Holy
Unique
Manifold
Subtle
Agile
Clear
Unstained
Certain
Not baneful
Loving the good
Keen
Unhampered
Beneficent
Kindly
Firm
Secure
Tranquil
All-powerful
All-seeing,
And pervading all spirits, though they be intelligent, pure, and very subtle (Wisdom 7:22-23).
Women and men alike count on wisdom to influence their thoughts, words, values, beliefs, and actions to embody some, if not all, these attributes. When I pray the Examen at the end of the day, I do so attempting to be “the spotless mirror of the power of God, the image of his goodness” (Wisdom 7:23) like Sophia.
I invite you to take some time to reflect on Wisdom 7:25. Ponder the gorgeous appearance of Sophia, “For she is a breath of the might of God and a pure emanation of the glory of the Almighty; therefore, nothing defiled can enter into her.”
I pray my life might radiate the glory of the Almighty, allowing nothing to defile me. I know my grandmother’s life did, and for that, I have little hesitancy to ask for her intercession from Heaven.
Granny Sophia, pray for me. Spirit of Wisdom, sweet Sophia, intoxicate my entire being. Amen.
Radiate the glory of the Almighty. // @socaltriciatClick to tweet
Tricia Tembreull is a seasoned ministry professional dedicated to guiding young hearts toward spiritual growth, healing, and the love of Christ. With a background in youth and young adult ministry, Tricia has served in various roles, including as a youth minister, college campus ministry at USC Caruso Catholic Center, and Regional Director for Life Teen International. As a devotions writer for Blessed Is She, she shares scripture reflections that resonate deeply with women of faith. Recognized as a compelling Catholic speaker, Tricia challenges audiences to embrace their faith with authenticity. Additionally, as a spiritual director, she provides compassionate support to those seeking deeper connections with God. Currently serving as the Coordinator of Young Adult Ministry and Evangelization for the Diocese of Orange, Tricia continues to inspire young adults to embrace their faith journey with zeal and purpose, embodying a commitment to spreading the gospel while fostering communities of love.
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