Wisdom is Better than Riches.

Homily for February 3, 2018.

God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, behold, I now do according to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you. I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor…” 1 Kings 3:11-13.  

There is a saying that if all the world’s richest persons were to transfer all their money to the world’s poorest people, that money would soon get back to rich again. The meaning of this proverb is that it is not money that makes one rich but the wisdom to handle money. Indeed, wisdom is far better than wealth.

In our first reading today, we hear Solomon praying to God; a prayer that really pleased God. What did Solomon ask for?

1. An understanding mind to govern the people.

2. Ability to discern between good and evil.

What were the things Solomon refused to ask for?

1. Solomon did not ask for long life.

2. Solomon did not ask for riches.

3. Solomon did not ask for the death of his enemies.

How come these three things Solomon refused to include in his prayer are the major things I pray for? And if God was pleased with Solomon for not asking for these things, doesn’t it imply that God is angry for me for making these the primary focus of my prayers?

The apostles returned back to Jesus with joy for successfully carrying out the mission Jesus sent them. Let us recall the instructions Jesus gave them upon embarking on this mission:

1. Take nothing for the journey except a Staff (Walking Stick).
2. No bread,
3. No bag,
4. No money.
5. Wear sandals and,
6. Do not put on two tunics.

When those who are sent forget their primary task and make the pursuit of money their sole aim and objective, there is always a problem; a crisis of identity. The message is no longer proclaimed but twisted for selfish gains. People are no longer told the truth but what they like to hear and society itself suffers.

In your prayers, be like Solomon - always ask for wisdom, rather than riches or other material things in this world. The truth is that God knows you need the good things of this world but it pleases God that you do not set them as your priority. God wants you to seek him first.

Let us Pray: Lord Jesus, may my prayers always be pleasing to you. Amen.

Be happy, live positive, it is well with you. Saturday of the 4^th Week in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: 1^st Kings 3:4-13 and Mark 6:30-34.