The 1st reading is taken from the Book of Proverbs.
It is one of the earliest books in the collection of wisdom literature, and it is attributed to the authorship of King Solomon.
There are many similarities to the general wisdom sayings that reflect on how one should live life.
But the Book of Wisdom is not just about how we should relate and treat others.
There is always the aspect of the accountability to God.
So the 1st reading talks about kindness, not to plot harm against other, not to pick up a quarrel against the innocent, not to emulate violence.
But it draws back to God when it says this: for the wilful wrong-doer is abhorrent to the Lord, who confides only in honest men.
When we read the Book of Wisdom as a source of guidance from the Lord, then our lives will shine like a lamp on a lamp-stand.
And we will also be able to show others how to live life wisely.