Ignorance of the scripture is Ignorance of Christ. - St Jerome.

Saint Jerome’s words, “Ignorance of Scripture is ignorance of Christ,” are an invitation to meet the Lord in the Scriptures. We read not merely to gather information, but to hear God’s word, know Christ more deeply, and let that encounter shape how we live. Today’s readings show that this encounter can include both reverence and struggle. Job stands before the mystery of God’s power and admits that human understanding cannot master it. The psalmist keeps praying even while feeling abandoned: “Let my prayer come before you, Lord.” Scripture does not conceal such honest anguish. It gives our questions and grief a place before God and teaches us to keep turning toward him when his presence feels hidden. In the Gospel, Jesus calls people to follow him without delay or divided purpose. His words are demanding because the Kingdom of God deserves our whole-hearted response. Reading Scripture well means allowing Jesus’ call to reach beyond the page: What attachment keeps me looking back? What word of Christ am I being asked to follow today? Saint Jerome devoted his learning to translating and explaining the Scriptures. His example reminds us that careful study serves a living relationship with Christ and the Church. We can begin simply: read attentively, pray with what we have read, and put one part of Christ’s teaching into practice. When we do not understand, we can ask for help and keep seeking. The goal is not to master every mystery, but to know the Lord and follow him more faithfully.