ABOVE ALL, A DISCERNING HEART

1^st READING - 1 Kings 3:4-13

P S A L M - Psalm 119:9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14

R: Lord, teach me your statutes.

GOSPEL

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.

 

Mark 6:30-34

SABBATH

Imagine no less than God Himself, offering to grant you anything you ask. What a privilege! Sky’s the limit — and remember, God is more powerful and generous than any genie fulfilling your wishes. This is exactly the situation with Solomon in today’s First Reading. He didn’t ask God at all “for long life for [him]self, nor for riches, nor for the life of [his] enemies.” Instead, he asked God for “an understanding heart to judge [his] people and to distinguish right from wrong,” adding a comment on the difficulty of governing the Israelites as his reason for such a request. Solomon’s entreaty pleased God. He said to him, “I do as you requested. I give you a heart so wise and understanding that there has never been anyone like you up to now, and after you there will come no one to equal you.” God even added a bonus: “In addition, I give you what you have not asked for, such riches and glory that among kings there is not your like.” If we were Solomon, what would we have asked from God? To emphasize further the value and importance of a discerning heart over riches and longevity, Jesus in today’s Gospel exemplifies it. Despite a hectic and tiring schedule, He still could muster enough compassion and care for the weary crowds, so as to minister to them even more. If we were in such a situation, we probably would have easily blown our top in anger and annoyance. But Jesus has a heart that is so perceptive and sympathetic. Despite His weariness, He still saw the crowds as deserving of His care, “for they were like sheep without a shepherd.” King Solomon was also a selfless shepherd, preferring to be kind-hearted and just towards his people. We perhaps are more like the weary sheep who would endlessly seek Jesus for healing and consolation. But thank God there are still persons who are like extensions or instruments of God for us, persons who do not seek their own glory but our benefit instead.  Fr. Martin Macasaet, SDB   REFLECTION QUESTION: What do you need from Jesus at this point in your life?   Lord Jesus, I place my needs at Your feet. You know which ones would be best for me — grant them as You please.