written by Jerry Runser
Today's reading is about an event that has stood out in my mind since hearing it as a very young boy, the time when God appears to Solomon in a dream and offers him anything he desires. In humility and unselfishness, he asks for a "discerning heart" to govern "God's great people". As a kid who read too many comic books when I first heard the story, I remember wondering which powers I would have asked for—certainly super strength, super-speed, and ability to fly. I might have added in ability to read minds and regenerative powers. Even in my immaturity, I was impressed with Solomon's wisdom and unselfishness to ask for ability to be a "just king" rather than special powers, popularity, or riches. The request so pleased God that he gave Solomon what I think of as "bonus blessings.”
I think this passage gives insights into the purposes of our lives on earth, and therefore what is best to ask God for. Our purposes include serving God, serving others, and developing our character. I believe that God often gives "bonus blessings" when we are unselfish in our petitions. When we focus on being a better parent / manager / employee / minister / teacher / public servant / Christian / whatever—not for our benefit, but to better serve others—other rewards often follow. With Jesus as our model, we know it is better to seek to serve than to seek power, riches or even security. It is humorous to think back on what I would have asked for as a young child. But maybe requests for a certain job, a good grade, a financial windfall, or other material things are along the same lines in God's view. Better to ask for things that will help us to serve the greater good. Then, as a good and faithful servant we might get "bonus blessings". In writing this reflection I looked at my list of favorite New Testament passages and saw a few that are very relevant to today's passage in Kings: " May your spirit be open and perspective in discovering the will of God for you. May your prayer be that of wisdom, guidance and a deeper understanding of God’s way for you." (Lk 1:26-38) And, "Let your unselfishness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Phil 4:5-7) I'll take "the peace of God, which transcends all understanding" over material things, even super powers.
Your brother in Christ,
Jerry