In today's first reading, 1 Kings 10: 1-10, the queen of Sheba visits King Solomon to see for herself this King, of whom people spoke so highly. She had heard about his wisdom and came to see for herself. She was amazed. Every subject about which she inquired, King Solomon's explanation gave witness to the wisdom with which God had blessed him. "Your wisdom and your prosperity surpass the report I heard. Blessed are your men, blessed these servants of yours, who stand before you also and listen to your wisdom. Blessed be the Lord, your God whom it has pleased to place you on the throne of Israel. In his enduring love for Israel, the Lord has made you king to carry out judgment and justice."
First of all, whom do you consult for wisdom, for insight, for knowledge of subjects in which you are interested? Do you have the humility of Queen Sheba to seek out wisdom greater than yours? Notice Queen Sheba's response! First of all, she recognizes King Solomon's wisdom and blessings. Are you able to affirm others for the gifts God has given them or does pride or jealousy hold you back? Secondly, Queen Sheba gives praise to God, from whom Solomon received his wisdom and riches. Do you recognize all good--that of other persons and your own--as coming from God?
As you apply this reading to yourself, you might ask yourself the following questions: who are the wisdom figures in your life? When was the last time that you acknowledged the gifts God has given to your spouse, your children, your coworkers, yourself? And, when you see good in others or in yourself, to whom do you give the credit?
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